A panic attack is a sudden feeling of extreme anxiety. Symptoms include feelings of dying or losing control of oneself, rapid breathing (hyperventilation), and a racing heart.
A person having a panic attack may feel dizzy, sweaty or shaky. Other symptoms include difficulty breathing, chest pain or tightness, and an irregular heartbeat.
A panic attack can be triggered by a stressful event or occur unexpectedly. The strength of a panic attack usually peaks within 10 minutes, and most symptoms fade within 30 minutes. Panic attacks can be successfully treated with counseling and medication.
| Author: | Jeannette Curtis |
| Medical Review: | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated: May 25, 2007 | |
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