Steps to Understanding What Panic Attack Disorder Is and Isn't

A brief definition of what panic attack disorder is involves the occurrence of repeated panic attacks. These attacks come on suddenly and paralyze the person with an overwhelming sense of fear. Besides a psychological aspect, this disorder also presents disturbing physical symptoms. Because of all these elements, the end result is that panic attack disorder closes in a person's world. Many people who suffer from this condition choose to become housebound rather that risk another attack. But understanding what panic attack disorder is can lead to a life of freedom.

What Is Panic Attack Disorder?

First of all, the types of feelings experienced in a panic attack are very different that those felt during a "normal" period of stress. There is usually no easily recognizable reason why a person experiences a panic attack. It comes on suddenly and intensely. The immediate symptoms are an overwhelming feeling of fear and anxiety.

The physical symptoms can include rapid breathing, a racing heart, dizziness, nausea or trembling. Within seconds the person is completely absorbed by the intensity of the panic attack and is unable to resume normal movements or thinking. The term "panic attack disorder" is what is applied to this condition. The person will experience repeated attacks, followed by time periods in which their thoughts are always focused on whether they will have another attack. Eventually, they will stop normal activities and limit their travel.

There seem to be several factors that may lead to a diagnosis of panic attack disorder. Family history appears to play a part in determining if a person is likely to develop this disorder. Substance abuse and a major stress event in a person's life may also trigger this condition. Some doctors feel that there is an abnormality in the brain that contributes to this condition. However, panic attacks can be successfully managed with proper treatment.

What Panic Attack Disorder Is Not

Panic attack disorder is not life threatening. However, it should be noted that the physical, heart-related symptoms of an attack do put additional stress on the heart muscle. For this reason, it's highly advised that a person suffering from panic attack disorder get this condition to a manageable state. Additionally, panic attack disorder is not "only in your mind". There appears to be very real biological and environmental factors that cause this disorder. Don't hesitate to seek treatment for this condition. The sooner you have it under control, the sooner you will experience a sense of freedom. Over 2 million Americans suffer from panic attack disorder. You are not alone.