The physiology of panic attacks
Panic attacks can be crippling and scary. Understanding the physiology behind the extreme symptoms can ease the fear and help anticipate, manage and avoid future attacks.
A panic attack is an inappropriate activation of the evolutionary flight or fight response which was designed to protect us from danger. During an attack, this inbuilt survival response is activated as the brain perceives a situation as anxiety provoking or dangerous.
Neurotransmitters activate the sympathetic nervous system and adrenaline is released into the blood stream, causing the following physiological effects:
1. PALPITATIONS as the heart beat increases
2. CHEST PAIN as the muscles in the chest wall contract.
3. BREATHLESSNESS is caused by hyperventilation from increased oxygen and lack of carbon dioxide
4. BLURRED VISION caused by pupil dilatation and hyperventilation
5. HYPERHIDROSIS cools the body and muscles
6. DIARRHOEA as the colon contractions increase to empty bowels to prepare for escape
7. TREMBLING as the muscles in the arms and legs tense in order to move quickly to flee danger.
What to do?
1. Take controlled breaths. This activates the parasympathetic nervous system and the relaxation response in the body. Breathe in for count of 7 and exhale for a count of 11.
2. Repeat until the symptoms subside.
3. Remember a panic attack will quickly burn itself out as the released adrenaline is reabsorbed by the body.
4. Remind yourself that although the symptoms are frightening they aren’t dangerous or life threatening - let the sensations come and go.
5. It’s normal to feel fatigued and worn out after an attack so take time to rest and recover.
Early therapeutic intervention is advised if you find yourself suffering from panic attacks to identify the source of your anxiety and prevent the frequency and severity of attacks from escalating.
N.B. Whilst unlikely, panic attack symptoms can sometimes resemble symptoms of other serious health problems, so always check with your doctor if you have any concerns