subject: Cure Panic Attacks by Knowing the Symptoms [print this page] The first step in curing panic attacks is to first learn its symptoms. You must first be sure that what you're dealing with is really panic attacks and nothing more. But what are the symptoms that characterize a panic attack? Here are the most common of them:
1. Shallow breathing This is probably the most frightening effect that a panic attack has. This shortness of breath is due to the brain ordering the body to take in as much oxygen as it possibly can to enhance metabolism. This process is triggered by the fight or flight mechanism ingrained in everybody's brain. The brain believes that the stress it is experiencing is due to impending danger.
2. Numbness and Tingling Sensations This is another symptom triggered by the fight or flight mechanism. The numbness or tingling is brought about by the body forcing the blood from the extremities into the larger muscles in preparation for fight or flight. These symptoms are often mistaken for stroke or heart attack.
3. Dizziness When in fight or flight mode, the pupils become dilated in order for more light to come into the eyes in order for them to see the source of danger better.
4. Nausea In order to escape faster, the brain orders the body to make it lighter. That is why when you become panicky you feel like you want to throw up. This is another symptom triggered by the fight or flight mechanism.
5. Light headedness and confusion As you go into the fight or flight mode, most of the brain activity from the frontal lobe of the brain (the one that handles rational thought) is forced to the mid part of the brain where the reflexes are. This is why when you have a panic attack, you don't have any idea whatsoever of what you are doing, as you are only relying on instinct.
These are the most common symptoms associated with panic attacks. As you can see, they are all rooted in the brain of the individual. Now that you know what causes your panic attack, you can easily find what techniques can actually eliminate the source of your troubles.
