What is a Panic Attack?

Panic attacks can be associated with many types of anxiety disorders. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th Edition), the essential feature of a Panic Attack is a distinct period of intense fear or discomfort that is accompanied by at least 4 of the following 13 symptoms (below). Panic Attacks occur suddenly and build to a peak very quickly, usually in 10 minutes or less, and are often accompanied by a sense of immediate danger or impending doom and an urge to escape.

The symptoms, which occur with Panic Attacks, are as follows:

1. Palpitations, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rate
2. Sweating
3. Trembling or shaking
4. Sensations of shortness of breath or smothering
5. Feeling of choking
6. Check pain or discomfort
7. Nausea or abdominal distress
8. Feeling dizzy, unsteady, lightheaded, or faint
9. Derealization (feelings of unreality) or depersonalization (being detached from oneself)
10. Fear of losing control or going crazy
11. Fear of dying
12. Numbness or tingling sensations
13. Chills or hot flushes

Remember, at least 4 of these symptoms must occur in conjunction with the intense feelings of fear or discomfort described above to meet the criteria for a Panic Attack. Attacks, which meet all other criteria, but are accompanied by fewer than 4 of the above symptoms, are referred to limited-symptom attacks.

It is also important to consider the context in which an individual feels such anxiety and feelings of panic. Panic Attacks can occur unexpectedly or by a certain event or situation such as social settings or a fear of heights.