Yes, we heard of the term panic frequently but most people never knew its entire concept. Hence, it is no surprise that some are continually asking as to what are panic attacks. This article will deal about the definition of panic attacks as well as its symptoms and possible triggers or causes.

Simply speaking, panic attacks are sudden, often unexpected, episodes of severe anxiety that may pose some physical effects and thinking alterations. This state is often induced by certain triggers or causes that are responsible for stimulating the “fight or flight” response mechanism of the person. This normal body response makes the person either “fight” the cause of anxiety or take “flight” or run away. When this state is occurring, certain hormones are pumped by the glands involved. Hormones, like epinephrine, are the main factor. Yes I know this is technical but I believe you’ve heard of adrenaline right? Basically, epinephrine is the same as adrenaline.

In addition regarding the triggers or causes of panic attacks, they may be either known or unknown to the victim. Some may be obvious in nature while some triggers may leave the witnesses around the patient puzzled why the attack happened.

The entire anxiety episode is normal if it is within the acceptable ranges. This means that if the anxiety does not progress to panic then the person’s senses can even be heightened. Your attention span can even be increased. That’s why anxieties can also be helpful. However, it is the state of panic that must be helped.

When we turn in to in-depth Biology, you may discover that there is a certain correlation between genes and anxiety itself. Yes, it has been found that a certain type of anxiety disorder may predispose an offspring or sibling into having one. Thus, a person whose mother experienced a generalized anxiety disorder or GAD is more likely to suffer from panic attacks than anyone else.

On the other side of the coin, panic attacks may be manifested differently per person. Each individual is unique and he or she may present with many different symptoms simultaneously, whereas the other may just show a single manifestation. A person under panic may interpret a neck discomfort with a choking sensation. A simple muscle twitch may be a call for paralysis or tingling sensations. The worst is if the victim interprets the tightening of chest muscles as an impending heart attack.

Therefore, panic is a wide concept dealing with the person’s individual unique responses to certain situations. With this information, you are now in a better position to help advice a friend suffering from panic attacks.