Are anxiety attacks normal?

Anxiety itself is a normal emotion that comes up for most people from time to time to respond to events or situations. For most people, anxiety comes and goes based on circumstances. Still, for others, it can become problematic and long-lasting or occur as a response to situations that don’t necessarily merit such a reaction.

Anxiety attacks, or panic attacks as they are called clinically, are sudden and intense bursts of anxiety that occur for what may be no real reason. Panic attack symptoms can often mimic serious medical conditions like heart attack, so it isn’t uncommon to experience an anxiety attack that results in a visit to the hospital with concerns about physical health.

Anxiety attacks can be a single event, or they may frequently occur as part of a larger issue. In either case, they aren’t necessarily ‘normal’ occurrences. Panic attack disorder is used to describe recurring panic attacks. For many people, the attacks themselves are so intense that fear of having another one can lead to avoiding situations, people, or other triggers, which can interfere with the ability to function in daily life.

Panic or anxiety attack symptoms include:

• Chest pain
• Rapid breathing or hyperventilation
• Rapid heart rate
• Trouble breathing
• Faintness or actually fainting
• Chills and hot flashes
• Shaking and sweating
• Stomachache, nausea, or diarrhea
• Tingling and cold in the extremities
• A sense of impending doom

Risk factors for panic attack are:

• Chronic stress
• Major life events or changes
• History of adverse childhood experiences (abuse, neglect, and other traumas)
• Experiencing trauma
• Family history of panic attacks

Panic or anxiety attacks can be diagnosed by your doctor or licensed mental health professional. If you’ve never had symptoms of a panic attack before, it’s important to visit your doctor to ensure that no underlying health conditions are causing the symptoms or the anxiety attacks themselves. Panic attacks are frequently treated with medication, therapy, or both. Certain lifestyle changes may be recommended to you. These often include regulating your sleep schedule, getting quality sleep, and exercising regularly to help manage stress levels. It may also be helpful to limit caffeine and other stimulants that may increase symptoms.