Panic attacks can happen anytime, to anyone, but those with eating disorders may find them to be more frequent in nature.
Panic attacks aren’t often talked about everyday conversation. Thought to be made up or perhaps even silly, panic attacks are a common occurrence in the lives of many. By taking the time to learn about panic attacks, especially in relation to eating disorders, you can learn not only how to control them, but how they begin in the first place.
What are Panic Attacks?
Panic attacks are episodes of great fear and can cause a sufferer discomfort. Not only are panic attacks scary , but they are also difficult to control. They can occur suddenly without any obvious cause or reason. Some sufferers have been asleep and woke up in panic from an attack. The severity and length of panics are different for everyone. Some people have attacks once daily while others can have several attacks during a day. People may begin to have panic attacks in their late teens and early thirties. But some have been older and even younger during the onset of their attacks.
Causes of Panic Attacks
While some people never seem to know why they have a panic attack, others do. There are various causes that have been said to trigger a panic attack. Some people have clear triggers, while others will not.
Certain objects may also be a trigger for a panic attack. For some, being exposed to a dog, cat, snake, spider or any other object can trigger an attack. At one time or another, the person suffering the panic attacks may avoid certain objects and situations altogether just to avoid a panic attack. For example, driving or going over bridges are situations which may incite a panic attack.
Signs of a Panic Attack
Some of the signs of a panic attack include:
- Chest pains
- Chills
- Dizziness
- Fear of dying or losing control
- Fear of going crazy
- Feelings of terror
- Hot flashes
- Nausea
- Perspiration
- Racing heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Stomach pain
- Sudden anxiety
- Trembling
Treatments for Panic Attacks
There are different types of treatment available for those who suffer from panic attacks. Not only can proper treatment help prevent them, they can even reduce the frequency and severity of attacks. Below are some common treatment options. Your primary care doctor will be able to diagnose and treat your panic or anxiety condition.
- Medications – Some people choose to use antidepressant medication to control frequent panic attacks or a fast-acting anti-anxiety medication to deal with attacks as they occur.
- Therapy – If there are certain triggers for panic attacks, therapy can help you overcome these fears.
Do You Have a Panic Disorder?
A panic disorder is a very serious health problem and should never be taken lightly. Panic attacks can cause a person to develop irrational fears that are called phobias. The sufferer suffers great anxiety and fear about another panic attack, it may leave the sufferer unable to get on a bus or even leave their home. At this point, the sufferer is said to have panic disorder. This disorder can seriously affect a person’s life. The person may not be able to hold down a job or function in the general population.
Many people who have had or who are having panic attacks may not tell anyone about them. They might be embarrassed or think they are going crazy. But panic attacks and panic disorders are treatable. All you need to do is to talk to your doctor to see how they can help you.