The indications of an Panic Attack aren't always easy to make out. Panic attacks can sometimes involve severe discomfort and many times include one or more physical symptoms. Many people that suffer from panic attacks find themselves wondering if they are actually having a panic attack or not.
To add to this confusion, anxiety symptoms can appear very similar to symptoms of an actual physical health problem, such as a heart attack or asthma. In fact, it is not uncommon to feel absolutely "convinced" that you have a debilitating illness or disease, when the actually problem is anxiety.
Some of the most common symptoms of an panic attack include:
1. Rapid heart beat
2. Shortness of breath
3. Lightheadedness/feeling light-headed
4. Fear of being "out of control"
5. Heart flutters
6. Sudden perspiring
7. Upset stomach
8. Tingling in the extremities
9. Feelings of being "out of touch" with the world around you
10. Shaking
11. A feeling of being "trapped"
On average, symptoms of an panic attack seldom last longer than 20-30 minutes, and often begin vanishing in 5 minutes or less. While anxiety attacks usually carry no lasting harmful physical effects, extended elevated stress levels and repeat panic attacks can weaken the immune system and lower overall quality of life.
Along with the physical symptoms, anxiety attacks are most often accompanied by a feeling of "doom" or hopelessness. Sufferers may also feel very self-conscious and begin comparing themselves negatively with others. As a result of this, some anxiety attack sufferers will develop low self-esteem and a poor self image. Likewise, many sufferers make an effort to hide the anxiety problem from friends and loved-ones, or even feel ashamed of themselves because they suffer with this issue (blaming the victim).
Repeated panic attacks can develop into a real health problem that needs to be treated. Seeing a counselor can help the person understand what is causing the stress. A great many people also benefit by learning relaxation techniques-for example, breathing exercises and bio-feedback are both beneficial in decreasing stress.
To read more articles on how anxiety, stress and panic attacks affect you, visit www.AnxietyDigest.com
For 4 quick tips you can use now to manage stress, read this free article here