Symptoms of a Panic Attack
Panic attack symptoms typically cause a sense of impending doom or extreme fear, a rapid, pounding heart rate, a loss of control, an extreme fear of imminent death, trembling or shaking, sweating, chills, hot flashes, shortness of breath, and tightness in the throat. It may also include nausea, chest pains, abdominal cramps, headaches, fainting, a detached, floating feeling, or dizziness.
Panic attacks are uncomfortable and frightening, but they are not particularly dangerous unless they compromise the ability to operate a car or other vehicle while operating it. But it is wise to seek medical attention if they occur. They may multiply or get worse, particularly if there has been a lot of stress and tension in your life from a family member’s illness or death, the loss of a job, arrival of a newborn baby, or a traumatic event, such as a sexual assault or bad accident.
If a panic attack happens, there are five steps you can practice to get through it. They are known by the acronym AWARE, which stands for acknowledge and accept; wait and watch; actions; repeat; end.
Here are the five coping steps in detail:
1) Acknowledge – Tell yourself that you are having a panic attack and accept that you are starting to panic. By acknowledging your fear, you will be able to tell yourself that you are not in danger.
2) Accept – This is a step not to fight the feeling. Going with it will help you overcome feelings.