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Panic Attacks

- Summary
- About panic attacks
- Potential causes
- Signs and symptoms
- Diagnosis methods
- Treatment options
- Prevention methods
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
Steven A. King, M.D.
 Tahir Tellioglu, M.D., APA, AAAP

Signs and symptoms of panic attacks

Panic attacks tend to occur suddenly, with symptoms following rapidly and reaching a peak within 10 minutes. The symptoms of panic attacks include:

  • Palpitations (rapid or pounding heartbeat)
  • Heavy perspiration
  • Shortness of breath or feeling of suffocation
  • Chest pain
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Nausea or abdominal cramping
  • Chills or hot flushes
  • Tingling and numbness in the hands
  • Trembling
  • Sensation of choking
  • Feelings of unreality or being detached from oneself
  • Fear of losing control
  • Fear of dying
A person who experiences four or more of these symptoms could be having a panic attack. As these symptoms multiply, the individual may feel an impending sense of doom or a loss of mental control. Gradually, these feelings and symptoms will subside. Once the attack has passed, a feeling of fatigue may set in.

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Review Date: 07-30-2007

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