Have you ever felt really scared all of a sudden, even when nothing around you seems dangerous? Your heart beats fast, your hands shake, and you feel like something terrible is about to happen. That might be a panic attack.
At Life Psychiatry, Sitora Mirsoatova serves as a compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner. She assists those experiencing difficult and frightening moments. She knows that panic attacks can feel overwhelming, but with the right help, things can get better.
Let’s discuss the symptoms of panic attacks. Knowing these can help us understand them better. This way, we can support ourselves or someone we care about.
What Is a Panic Attack?
A panic attack is a sudden, intense fear. Your breathing quickens, and your heart pounds. A panic attack can happen for no clear reason.
Why Do Panic Attacks Happen?
Your body has a “fight or flight” system. It wakes up when it thinks you are in danger. With a panic attack, your body thinks you are in big danger when you are safe. This can be because of stress or strong feelings.
Common Signs of a Panic Attack
Here are the main signs. You can learn them to feel safe.
Fast Heartbeat
- Your heart pounds. You feel it in your chest or throat.
Sweating
- You may feel very hot. Your skin can get wet.
Shaking or Trembling
- Your hands or legs may shake like a leaf.
Shortness of Breath
- It feels like you cannot get enough air.
Chest Pain
- You may feel a tight pain in your chest.
Dizziness
- Your head might spin. You may think you will fall.
Numbness or Tingling
- You can feel pins and needles in your hands or lips.
Chills or Hot Flashes
- You may suddenly feel very cold or very warm.
Fear of Losing Control
- You may worry you will pass out or go crazy.
Fear of Dying
- It can feel like you are in real danger and might die.
Other Feelings You Might Have
Sometimes you may feel strange things. You might feel like you are not real. This is called “derealization.” Or you might feel like you are outside your body. This is “depersonalization.”
Why It Helps to Know the Signs
When you know a panic attack is coming, you can use steps to feel safe. You can breathe slowly. You can find a calm place. You can tell a helper or friend what is going on.
How to Stay Safe During a Panic Attack
Breathe Slowly
- Count to four as you breathe in. Next, exhale while counting to four.
Ground Yourself
- Look around and name five things you see. Name four things you hear. Name three things you can touch.
Use a Calming Object
- Hold a small toy or a soft cloth. Focus on how it feels.
Tell Yourself You Are Safe
- Say out loud, “I am safe. This will pass.”
Find a Quiet Spot
- Go to a calm room or step outside if you can.
When to Seek Help
If panic attacks happen often, you can get real help. Talk to a doctor or a nurse. They can show you additional methods to ensure your safety. They can talk to you about medicine if you need it.
How Life Psychiatry Can Help
Life Psychiatry cares for people in New York and New Jersey. Sitora Mirsoatova is a nurse practitioner in psychiatric mental health. She helps people learn why panic attacks happen. She uses kind words and safe methods. She works with kids, adults, and elders.
At Life Psychiatry you can learn ways to feel calm. You can express your worries in a safe setting. You can learn skills to stop panic before it starts. Reach out today.
Tips to Prevent Panic Attacks
Sleep Well
- Try to sleep the same hours each night.
Eat Healthy
- Eat foods with good protein and fruits.
Move Your Body
- Walk, dance, or play games each day.
Talk About Feelings
- Share worries with a friend or helper.
Learn Calm Skills
- Practice breathing or listen to soft music.
My Personal Promise
Sitora says, “You are not alone. I will listen. I will help you find your own peace.” Her smile and kind heart make you feel safe. She believes you can grow strong.
Living Well After Panic Attacks
You can live a full life. Panic attacks may come back sometimes. But you will have tools to stop them. You will know the signs. You will know you are safe.
Conclusion
Now you know the symptoms of panic attacks. You know the signs. You know ways to stay calm. You know when to get help. You know that Sitora Mirsoatova at Life Psychiatry will guide you with care.
Remember, a panic attack can feel big, but you are bigger. You have friends, helpers, and doctors on your side. You can learn to breathe. You can learn to ground yourself. You can feel safe again.
FAQs
What is a panic attack?
A panic attack occurs when your body experiences a sudden wave of intense fear. Your heart pounds, you sweat, and you may feel like you can’t breathe.
How long does a panic attack last?
Most panic attacks end within 10 minutes. They feel long, but they pass quickly.ill guide you with care.
Remember, a panic attack can feel big, but you are bigger. You have friends, helpers, and doctors on your side. You can learn to breathe. You can learn to ground yourself. You can feel safe again.