Panic attacks are random episodes of intense fear and anxiety. <br />The sufferer experiences a sudden rush of emotional and physical symptoms which come without any obvious reason, and without warning. <br />SYMPTOMS OF PANIC ATTACKS INCLUDE: <br />Overwhelming feelings of anxiety <br />Heart palpitations <br />Sweating <br />Nausea <br />Dizziness <br />Shortness of breath <br />A feeling of dread, and even <br />A fear of dying <br />CAUSES OF PANIC ATTACKS <br />Although the exact causes of panic attacks are unclear, they may occur as a result of: <br /> <br />Stressful life experiences (which may be at the root of emotional distress) <br />Dietary problems <br />Breathing problems <br />Exaggerated adrenaline response to ‘fight or flight situations’ <br />Personality traits <br />Unstable blood sugar levels <br />Caffeine levels, cigarettes, alcohol and some prescription medication <br />Abnormalities in some neurotransmitters in the brain, and Phobias
