Archive for the ‘panic disorder’ Category

Panic Attacks Anxiety Disorder – what is it and are panic attacks and anxiety even the same thing?

Panic attacks and anxiety are actually two separate issues but can often be related.  It is quite common for a person that suffers from anxiety disorder can go on to develop panic attacks and a panic disorder.

Let’s take a closer look at anxiety disorder vs panic disorder.

Anxiety Disorder

Everyone will suffer from anxiety at some point in their life and this is a perfectly normal reaction to certain situations.  For example, let’s say I have to give a speech in front of 100 people tomorrow, then today I might be feeling anxious about giving that speech.  If I’m not very comfortable with public speaking then this is a situation that could cause me quite a bit of anxiety.  And that’s ok, that is perfectly normal. Read the rest of this entry »

Panic attacks involve overpowering anxiety and horror. Dizziness, breathing problems and a racing heart are common panic attack symptoms. However, it is treatable and the sooner the better.

Panic disorder, on the other hand, is the result of recurring panic attacks followed by significant behavioural changes and continuous fear over other such attacks. Sometimes a single panic attack or repeated panic attacks may emotionally drain a person’s mind leading to panic disorder.

Panic attacks treatment includes medication, psychotherapy, cognitive behavioural therapy and exposure therapy. However, treatment may be different for each person. Meditation and other relaxation therapies are often used as alternative methods for the relaxation of the body and peace of mind. Read the rest of this entry »

To understand Panic Disorder Symptoms, we must first understand the term “Panic Attacks.” Panic attacks involve overpowering anxiety and horror. Dizziness, breathing problems and a racing heart are common panic attack symptoms. However, it is treatable and the sooner the better.

Panic Disorder Symptoms are a result of recurring panic attacks followed by significant behavioural changes and continuous fear over other such attacks. Panic disorder symptoms are usually related to alcoholism, depression and feelings of fear. Sometimes a single panic attack or repeated panic attacks may emotionally drain a person’s mind leading to panic disorder symptoms.

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What exactly is a panic attack?  Well here is the definition from Wikipedia…..

Panic attacks are very sudden, discrete periods of intense anxiety, mounting physiological arousal, fear, stomach problems and discomfort that are associated with a variety of somatic and cognitive symptoms. The onset of these episodes is typically abrupt, and may have no obvious triggers.

Although these episodes may appear to be random, they are a subset of an evolutionary response commonly referred to as fight or flight that occur out of context. This response floods the body with hormones, particularly epinephrine (adrenaline), that aid it in defending against harm. Experiencing a panic attack is said to be one of the most intensely frightening, upsetting and uncomfortable experiences of a person’s life. Read the rest of this entry »