Panic Attack

The coronavirus pandemic has prompted several countries of the world to go into lockdown. With the unavailability of groceries and medicine, people are experiencing a panic attack and are panic buying essential stuff. Eminent Psychiatrist Dr. Devendra Save explains what it is, how to identify the condition and how to deal with it.

Panic Attack

Dr. Devendra Save says, “6.8% of adults meet the criteria for panic disorder at some point in their lives. Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder, which is characterized by recurring unexpected attacks of fear and panic. Panic attacks begin suddenly without warning. They can strike at any time. Examples are while driving a car, at the mall, in the middle of a business meeting and so on.”
According to him – Any stress can up the risk of panic disorder. People with sensitive and obsessive personalities can be at a higher risk.

Symptoms and Protection against Panic Attacks

Some common symptoms of a panic attack include a sense of impending doom, fear of death, palpitations, sweating, trembling, shaking, shortness of breath or tightness in your throat, chest pain, headache dizziness or lightheadedness, phobic avoidance, anticipatory anxiety, etc.
Regular physical activity, avoiding substances like caffeine, alcohol and drugs, engaging in stress management techniques like deep breathing, yoga and muscle relaxation may play a role in protecting against panic attacks.

Picture Courtesy

cottonbro from Pexels and Dr. Devendra Save