Symptoms of Severe Anxiety Attacks
These attacks appear suddenly and typically peak within 10 minutes, then subside shortly afterward. The most common symptoms include:
- Chest pain.
- Rapid heartbeat.
- Chills.
- Sweating.
- Trembling.
- Tingling or numbness in the fingers or toes.
- Nausea.
- Feeling of suffocation.
- Shortness of breath.
- Overwhelming terror.
- Fear of losing control or going crazy.
- Irrational thoughts.
- Fear of impending death.
Causes of These Attacks
The exact causes of severe anxiety attacks are still unknown, but the following factors increase the likelihood of occurrence:
- Family history of such attacks: Anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, often run in families.
- Having another mental disorder: Such as depression or another anxiety disorder.
- Substance addiction: Whether drug or alcohol abuse.
- Having a physical illness: These conditions can increase the risk of panic attacks:
- Diabetes.
- Asthma.
- Inner ear problems.
- Overactive thyroid (Hyperthyroidism), including postpartum cases.
- Heart disease.
Treatment Methods for These Attacks
The main treatment approaches for panic attacks include:
- Psychotherapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective treatments. During therapy sessions, the therapist discusses the patient’s recurring panic-inducing thoughts and teaches ways to identify triggers and change responses to avoid future attacks.
- Antidepressants: Some antidepressants can reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks. These include:
- Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs).
- Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs).
- Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs).
- Anti-anxiety medications: Benzodiazepines are among the most commonly used drugs in this category.
- Treating underlying conditions: If the panic attacks are triggered by a physical illness, treating that illness is crucial to eliminating the attacks.
Meditation Practice for Severe Anxiety Attacks
Practicing meditation is undoubtedly part of self-care for individuals suffering from panic attacks. Meditation fosters relaxation and inner peace, reducing the psychological stress linked to panic episodes. It helps individuals better handle both the mental and physical symptoms of the attacks. We recommend downloading the Tawazon app to explore various meditation techniques and enjoy a wide range of sessions and podcasts.
