What is the difference between panic attacks and anxiety attacks, their symptoms, and how to control them? Many people confuse the terms anxiety attacks and panic attacks, despite their differences in symptoms, causes, psychological treatment methods, and medications. We will learn about the difference between them in the rest of the article.
What are panic attacks
Panic attacks are sudden bouts of intense fear that trigger severe physical reactions. They may occur without a clear cause, and their symptoms are severe and rapidly peak.
What are anxiety attacks
Anxiety attacks are defined as sudden, intense fear that peaks within a few minutes. They may be accompanied by symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath. They can be caused by life stressors or genetic factors.
Symptoms of panic attacks and anxiety attacks
Symptoms of panic attacks appear suddenly and include:
- Feeling of suffocation.
- Chest pain.
- Rapid heartbeat.
- Detachment from reality.
- Dry mouth.
- Stomach upset. Abdominal pain.
- Extreme fear.
- Nausea.
- Palpitations.
Physical and psychological symptoms of anxiety attacks include:
- Rapid heartbeat.
- Shortness of breath.
- Tremors.
- Sweating.
- Stomach upset.
- Nausea.
- Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet.
- Muscle tension.
- Difficulty concentrating.
- Feeling weak and tired.
- Loss of control or delirium.
What causes panic attacks
There are no clear causes of panic attacks, but there are some factors that may increase the risk, including:
- Exposure to severe psychological stress, such as anxiety.
- Genetic factors, if there is a family history of panic disorder.
- Exposure to violence or abuse.
- Chemical changes in the brain.
- Certain chronic illnesses or serious accidents.
- Excessive use of certain medications that trigger panic attacks.
- Excessive caffeine consumption.
Causes of Anxiety Attacks
The causes of anxiety attacks vary, including:
- Genetics and biological factors, such as imbalances in brain chemistry.
- Exposure to life stressors and sudden events, such as the death of a loved one or work problems.
- Other mental health disorders, such as depression.
- A sensitive or shy personality is more susceptible to anxiety attacks.
What is the difference between anxiety attacks and panic attacks
The main difference is that panic attacks occur suddenly and without a clear cause, and their symptoms are severe, sudden, and rapid. Anxiety attacks, on the other hand, are associated with clear stressors and develop gradually, ranging in severity from mild to severe.
Treatment of Anxiety Attacks
Treatment of anxiety attacks relies on anti-anxiety and antidepressant medications prescribed by a physician, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and buspirone, and beta-blockers such as propranolol.
Cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps teach anxiety management skills, emphasizes the importance of getting adequate sleep and exercising at home.
Panic Attack Treatment
Panic attack treatment includes a combination of psychotherapy and medications prescribed by the treating physician. The physician may resort to:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy, which is the primary treatment to identify the situations and thoughts that trigger these attacks.
- Treatment involves gradually exposing the person to the triggers of panic attacks to reduce their fear.
- Taking antidepressant medications prescribed by a physician, such as fluoxetine, sertraline, and venlafaxine.
- Benzodiazepines, which are sedatives used with antidepressants but can be addictive.
Tips to Reduce Panic Attacks and Anxiety
Some tips, including lifestyle changes, can help reduce panic attacks, including:
- Regulating sleep schedules and getting enough sleep, as fatigue and exhaustion can affect panic attacks.
- Exercise regularly.
- Strengthening mental health.
- Reducing caffeine, cigarette, and alcohol consumption.
- Establishing a calming routine, such as taking a warm bath or relaxing.
- Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help reduce anxiety and panic attacks.
- Regular exercise helps control anxiety symptoms and improve mental health.
Complications of Panic Attacks
Untreated panic attacks can lead to frequent panic attacks and a constant state of fear. Complications of panic attacks include:
- Depression, psychological disorders, and anxiety attacks.
- Phobias.
- Fear of social situations.
- Problems at work or school.
- Increased risk of suicidal thoughts.
- Substance addiction.
Herbal drinks that reduce anxiety
There are many herbal drinks that help relieve stress and anxiety, including:
- Chamomile tea, which helps calm the nerves and promote relaxation.
- Green tea, which helps improve attention and concentration.
- Cold hibiscus juice helps calm the nerves and reduce anxiety.
- Peppermint tea helps relieve headaches caused by anxiety.
- Cold hibiscus juice calms the nerves and reduces anxiety levels.
Summary of the Difference Between Anxiety and Panic Attacks
Anxiety attacks occur gradually and are a reaction to obvious stressors and tangible threats. Their symptoms last for a long time and vary in severity.
Panic attacks, on the other hand, occur suddenly and without a clear cause. Their symptoms are more severe than anxiety attacks and are short-lived, accompanied by a sense of loss of control.