Symptoms of Panic Attack in Adults: What to Look For

A rapid and pounding heart is one of the most frequently reported physical symptoms of a panic attack. This sensation of an accelerated heartbeat can be extremely distressing and often feels like the heart is about to burst from the chest. Individuals experiencing this symptom may also feel a sense of impending doom or fear of losing control. The rapid heart rate is often accompanied by other physical sensations, making the experience even more frightening and overwhelming. This symptom can range from a slight increase in heart rate to a significantly elevated and uncomfortable pace.

Recognizing this symptom as part of a panic attack can help individuals manage their anxiety and fear. Understanding that the rapid heart rate is a physiological response to the anxiety, and not a sign of a serious medical condition, is crucial in calming the situation.

Physical Symptoms of a Panic Attack: Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing is another common physical manifestation of a panic attack. Individuals may feel like they can't get enough air, leading to a sense of suffocation or gasping for breath. This symptom can be particularly frightening, as it can mimic the feeling of impending death. The feeling of not being able to breathe can trigger a cycle of anxiety, making the experience even more intense.

This symptom is often accompanied by hyperventilation, where the person breathes rapidly and shallowly. The increased rate of breathing can lead to further physical sensations like lightheadedness or dizziness.

Physical Symptoms of a Panic Attack: Chest Pain

Chest pain is a terrifying symptom that can accompany a panic attack. This symptom often leads to individuals fearing a heart attack, which can heighten anxiety and distress. The pain may feel sharp, stabbing, or a dull ache, and it can vary in intensity. Often, the chest pain is not caused by a heart attack but instead is a result of the intense physical response to the panic attack.

It is essential to distinguish between chest pain associated with a panic attack and a potential heart attack. If you experience chest pain that is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms like shortness of breath or nausea, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

Physical Symptoms of a Panic Attack: Sweating

Excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, is a common physical symptom associated with panic attacks. This symptom can manifest as profuse sweating, especially on the palms, hands, and face. The sweating itself can be uncomfortable and may lead to feelings of embarrassment or anxiety. The increased perspiration is a physiological response to the body's heightened stress response during a panic attack.

Physical Symptoms of a Panic Attack: Trembling or Shaking

Trembling or shaking is another frequently reported physical symptom of a panic attack. Individuals may experience shaking in their hands, legs, or throughout their entire body. This symptom can range from a slight tremor to a more pronounced and noticeable shaking, which can be quite unsettling. The physical trembling often mirrors the internal turmoil and fear associated with the panic attack.

The shaking is a result of the body's release of adrenaline and other stress hormones. Understanding this physiological response can help individuals manage their anxiety and recognize the warning signs of a panic attack.

Physical Symptoms of a Panic Attack: Nausea and Dizziness

Nausea and dizziness are physical symptoms that can be quite debilitating during a panic attack. The feeling of nausea can manifest as an upset stomach, a queasy sensation, or even the urge to vomit. Dizziness can range from lightheadedness to a sensation of spinning or unsteadiness. These symptoms can significantly impact a person's ability to function and can be very distressing.

These symptoms are often associated with the body's fight-or-flight response, where the body redirects resources to deal with perceived threat. Understanding that these symptoms are part of the panic attack response can help individuals manage the experience.

Physical Symptoms of a Panic Attack: Numbness or Tingling

Numbness or tingling sensations in the hands, feet, or other parts of the body can be a distressing symptom of a panic attack. These sensations can range from a mild prickling sensation to a more intense and uncomfortable numbness. The affected areas may feel detached or disconnected from the body. These sensations are often linked to the body's heightened state of arousal during a panic attack.

These symptoms, like many others, are often a result of the body's stress response. Understanding this physiological connection can help individuals better manage their anxiety and recognize the signs of a panic attack.