Do You Have These Panic Attack Symptoms?

A panic attack is a one of those things that literally grabs you by the throat and doesn't let go. A sufferer can virtually find himself or herself running around in circles trying to "escape" the feeling of dread. However, that's the extreme case. What about those times when you're quite not sure what it is you're suffering from? Not all panic symptoms hit you over the head with a sledge hammer.

So the question is, how can you tell if you're having a panic? If you're having any of the following symptoms, you just might be. One of the most common symptoms of a panic is a racing heart. It can almost feel like it's trying to jump out of your body. If you put your hand to your chest, you can feel it pounding.

Another common symptom of panic attacks is feeling weak or dizzy. You may lose your balance or feel like you're going to pass out. Of course these symptoms can also be caused by high blood pressure or even low blood sugar. That's why it's important to make note of all your symptoms and not just one or two.

You may also feel a tingling or numbing sensation in the fingers. However, and most people don't know this, sinus problems can also cause the same sensation. If you're prone to sinus problems or have allergies (see your allergist) that tingling sensation doesn't have to be caused by panic.

A common symptom is a feeling of dread or death. At times this can almost feel like a premonition. I'm not suggesting that people having panic attacks can actually predict the future (that's a topic for another time) but in their minds, the person having the attack is sure that something terrible is going to happen.

In addition to the above, you may also feel sweaty or might be having chills. Of course this could also be caused by having the flue or a severe cold. Again, you need to look at all the symptoms in order to make a proper self diagnosis.

A serious symptom is one of chest pains. The reason this is serious is because what may appear to be a panic attack could very well be the onset of a heart episode. If you are having chest pains, don't guess. See a doctor immediately, especially if the pains worsen.

You may also have trouble breathing or feel like you are losing control of yourself. That sense of loss of control is usually when the panic attack begins to worsen. If you are having several of the above symptoms, it is quite possible that you're having a panic attack. Once you've determined that much, the question is...what next?

Treating panic attacks, outside of traditional medicine which can have serious side effects, is your safest and best option. And yes, there are natural treatments for panic attacks. For more information on that subject, please see the link below.

In the meantime, please make a note of these symptoms any time that you feel that you're having a panic attack. Proper diagnosis is the first step to finding a cure.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6975106