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Panic attacks are sudden, unreasonable feelings of fear and anxiety that cause physical symptoms like a racing heart, fast breathing and sweating. Some people become so fearful of these attacks that they develop panic disorder, a type of anxiety disorder. Therapy and anti-anxiety medications can stop panic attacks.
A panic attack causes sudden, brief feelings of fear and strong physical reactions in response to ordinary, nonthreatening situations. When you’re having a panic attack, you may sweat a lot, have difficulty breathing and feel like your heart is racing. It may feel as if you’re having a heart attack. Panic disorder can develop when you worry too much about having another panic attack or change behaviors to avoid having a panic attack. How common are panic attacks?Every year, up to 11% of Americans experience a panic attack. Approximately 2% to 3% of them go on to develop panic disorder. Who might have panic attacks?Anyone can experience a panic attack. These factors play a role:
Experts don’t know why some people experience panic attacks or develop panic disorder. The brain and nervous system play key roles in how you perceive and handle fear and anxiety. Your risk of having panic attacks increases if you have:
What are the symptoms of a panic attack?Panic attacks occur suddenly and without warning. There’s no way to stop a panic attack after it starts. Symptoms usually peak within 10 minutes after an attack starts. They disappear soon after. Signs of a panic attack include:
Serious health problems, such as heart disease, thyroid disease and respiratory problems, cause symptoms similar to panic attacks. Your healthcare provider may run tests to rule out a physical problem. If there’s no physical cause, your provider may make a diagnosis based on your symptoms and risk factors. How is panic disorder diagnosed?Medical or mental health providers can diagnose panic disorder. Your provider may diagnose panic disorder when you have repeated panic attacks and you:
Psychotherapy, medications or a combination are very effective at stopping panic attacks. How long you’ll need treatment depends on the severity of your problem and how well you respond to treatment. Options include:
What are the complications of panic attacks?Panic attacks are highly treatable. Unfortunately, many people put off seeking help because they’re embarrassed. Untreated panic attacks or panic disorder can interfere with your ability to enjoy life. You may develop:
Your healthcare provider can help you identify triggers that bring on panic attacks. During psychotherapy, you learn strategies to manage triggering events and prevent an attack. You can also take these actions to lower your odds of having a panic attack:
With treatment for panic attacks, most people get better. Taking the positive step to seek treatment is key to stopping the attacks so that you can enjoy — and not fear — life.
Some panic attacks have signs that can be confused with a physical problem like a heart attack. If you have chest pain or trouble breathing or lose consciousness, seek emergency medical care. You should call your healthcare provider if you have panic attacks and experience:
What questions should I ask my doctor?If you have panic attacks, you may want to ask your healthcare provider:
A note from Cleveland Clinic Panic attacks can be extremely uncomfortable. Although they’re not physically harmful, they can take a toll on your mental health and stop you from doing the things you love. Don’t be embarrassed to tell your healthcare provider that you have panic attacks. Your provider can help you overcome fears and anxieties that trigger attacks. You can get better with treatments like psychotherapy and medications.
Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 08/12/2020. References
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Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy |