Signs And Symptoms Of Anxiety And Panic Attacks You Need To Know
Many people have feelings of anxiousness, it is pretty common for a number of reasons but what exactly are the symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks? Why would an individual be reluctant to acknowledge their symptoms?
Acknowledging that you've had a panic attack can often be a huge step. There is no point in refusing to think about what has occurred, this denial is of no benefit to you. It will take bravery on your part to face up to things but it is only once you do this that you can get help should you need it.
There appears to be a lack of general awareness about panic attacks despite the numbers who experience them on a daily basis. Doctors have known about the symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks since the beginning of the 1900's.
It was likely in those days that your symptoms would be put down to some kind of heart complaint. Upon finding no problems associated with the heart, it would be put down to a case of "nerves". Hence effective treatment eluded most people.
Panic attacks are associated with panic disorder and panic disorder is an anxiety disorder. It is only relatively recently, around 1980 that anxiety disorders were realised as seperate conditions. Each anxiety disorder has different symptoms, but all the symptoms have overwhelming fear in common.
Not all people have what is classed as panic disorder though they have panic attacks. You must have at least four in a four week period and they must be spontaenous and seperate from each other. You must also have at least four symptoms such as a fast heart rate or palpitations, shortness of breath, feeling faint or dizzy, chest pain, sweating, feeling nauseous, shaking or trembling muscles. a feeling of choking or wanting to go to the toilet.
Moreover similar thoughts and feelings are shared. Feelings of intense terror are overpowering and a feeling that you are on the verge of death. Frightened and bewildered at what is happening, that you might be losing your mind. It is common to feel disconnected from what is happening which can be quite disturbing.
Its very easy to become completely restricted if you have recurring, full-blown attacks. It is important to seek treatment before your condition gets worse and you start to avoid places where you have already had an attack. This condition is known as agoraphobia or fear of open spaces and can be prevented by seeking early treatment.
People with panic disorder may find it difficult sometimes to get a full and proper diagnosis and often end up in A&E many times before the correct diagnosis is made. Knowledge is power as is often said. Take back your power and learn the facts about panic attacks and how best to treat your condition.