3 Common Panic Attack Signs

Everyone should be familiar with the most common panic attack signs. Even if you have never experienced a complete panic attack or do not have a typical anxiety disorder, this is something that could suddenly happen to literally someone at an unexpected moment.

It is common for people who have never suffered from panic or anxiety issues to report that they in some situations suddenly slipped in to a full on attack. Had these people known the signs of this type of attack, they could have prevented it from setting in full force.

Let's consider two of the most common symptoms so you will know how to respond if they hit you suddenly.

Duration- The period of a panic attack commonly ranges from 15 seconds to 30 minutes. However some episodes may be more severe lasting hours. Some patients who have a history of panic attacks can also experience significant anticipatory anxiety & limited symptom attacks in between normal attacks, directly affecting their general ability & quality of life. This can be an indication of panic attack disorder. If left untreated, the disorder can potentially create in to a phobia.

Most people report feeling short on breath. It's as if something heavy has dropped onto your chest & you can't get a nice breath all the way through. This sensation can easily lead to panic which only makes the panic onset worse, if you are uncertain what is causing this feeling.

Breathing Problems

The best response is slow, deliberate breaths instead of panicky, short breaths.

Mental Disconnect

Another common sensation is feeling like you have mentally disconnected from whatever is happening around you. You may know that someone is talking to you, see their lips move, but find it impossible to really process & connect what they are actually saying to you. You may also feel as if the movement in the room is happening in the background or in slow motion.

Often, this type of disconnected feeling is a result of the panic & breathing problems that may set in first.

Often, the first signs will be anxious sensations which can be different for each individual person. You may notice your hands shaking a little or your throat going dry. You may feel like you can't stand up without getting unsteady or wobbly. Some people report issues with their eyes or skin as well.

Anxious Sensation

While there's lots of panic attack signs to look out for, you generally want to pay attention when you suddenly feel uncomfortable or nervous in a particular situation. If you notice subtle signs of anxiety when in particular settings, you may be under some anxious stress in those moments.

Anxiety can present itself in different ways in different people. This is why you may not realize what is happening until it is late if you have never experienced an attack before. Making yourself familiar with some of the common sensations that come along with it can help you react in a calmer, relaxed manner so that it can possibly be controlled.