Someone having a panic attack experiences a sudden and intense sensation of fear.

They may feel they have lost control and feel desperate to get out of the situation that has triggered their anxiety.

Symptoms of panic attack include:

  • rapid breathing
  • feeling breathless
  • sweating
  • feeling very hot or cold
  • feeling sick
  • feeling faint or dizzy
  • tingling fingers
  • shivering or shaking
  • racing heart or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)

The problem may get worse if over-breathing sets in because this triggers sensations such as confusion, cramps, pains and feelings of weakness. The symptoms of a severe panic attack can be quite similar to a heart attack and someone experiencing one may be convinced they are going to die.

To someone having a panic attack, an activity that other people consider simple may seem impossible, but with the right help and support you can learn to manage panic attacks and feel better.