‘Other times, cases of panic attacks may be anticipated, otherwise known as an ‘expected panic attack.’

These attacks commonly occur during triggering situations like proximity to a feared animal or a dreaded work emergency.

These attacks can affect anyone from children and teenagers to grown adults.

woman having a panic attack using paper bag to calm herself

Peter Dazeley / Getty Images

Panic attacks are also commonly experienced with conditions such asobsessive-compulsive disorder,social phobia,depression, andanxiety.

This person may have a sensitive central nervous system centered in the amygdala.

The amygdala is a portion of the brain responsible for processing fear and threatening interactions.

While this occurs, the body is experiencing chemical changes that are leading to that reaction.

The fight and flight system then further heightens anxiety that may lead to a panic attack.

One of the techniques commonly used in this process isexposure therapy.

This measure may be used when there is a specific trigger for the panic.

Exposure therapy may also manage the internal responses to panic attacks, such as increased heart rates and dizziness.

Breathing Training

Breathing exercisesare also sometimes utilized to manage the symptoms of panic attacks.

Breathing training is intended to curb hyperventilation because of panic attacks.

However, while it is popularly used, its effectiveness remains under study.

Medication

Two commonly prescribed medications to treat panic attacks are antidepressants and benzodiazepines.

SSRIs help to improve the mood and are useful for improving the levels of serotonin in the brain.

A Word From Verywell

Panic attacks are high ranking on the list of unpleasant bodily sensations.

While the origins of this condition remain unclear, management for panic attacks is more certain.

Reach out to a professional on the appropriate steps and treatment measures to take to treat these attacks.

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