A panic attack is a sudden surge of overwhelming anxiety and fear. Your heart pounds and you can’t breathe. You may even feel like you’re dying or going crazy. Left untreated, panic attacks can lead to panic disorder and other problems. They may even cause you to withdraw from normal activities. But panic attacks can be cured and the sooner you seek help, the better. With treatment, you can reduce or eliminate the symptoms of panic and regain control of your life.In many cases, panic attacks strike out of the blue, without any warning. Often, there is no clear reason for the attack. They may even occur when you’re relaxed or asleep.

A panic attack may be a one-time occurrence, but many people experience repeat episodes. Recurrent panic attacks are often triggered by a specific situation, such as crossing a bridge or speaking in public—especially if that situation has caused a panic attack before. Usually, the panic-inducing situation is one in which you feel endangered and unable to escape.

You may experience one or more panic attacks, yet be otherwise perfectly happy and healthy. Or your panic attacks may occur as part of another disorder, such as panic disorder, social phobia, or depression. Regardless of the cause, panic attacks are treatable. There are many effective treatments and coping strategies you can use to deal with the symptoms.

A full-blown panic attack includes a combination of the following signs and symptoms:

1. Shortness of breath or hyperventilation

2. Heart palpitations or a racing heart

3. Chest pain or discomfort

4. Trembling or shaking

5. Choking feeling

6. Feeling unreal or detached from your surroundings

7. Sweating

8. Nausea or upset stomach

9. Feeling dizzy, light-headed, or faint

10. Numbness or tingling sensations

11. Hot or cold flashes

12. Fear of dying, losing control, or going crazy