Written by Glintcare Clinical Team
Our multidisciplinary clinical team develops and reviews educational mental health content to ensure accuracy, clarity, and alignment with current clinical practice.
A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear that triggers severe physical reactions even when there is no real danger. They can occur unexpectedly or in specific situations, and the fear of having another attack can itself become disabling.
What Does a Panic Attack Feel Like?
Panic attacks typically peak within ten minutes and include symptoms such as a racing or pounding heart, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, dizziness, chills or heat sensations, numbness or tingling, and a fear of losing control or dying. The experience is deeply distressing and can leave people feeling exhausted and fearful.
Panic Disorder vs Occasional Panic Attacks
Many people experience one or two panic attacks in their lifetime without developing panic disorder. Panic disorder is diagnosed when attacks recur unexpectedly and the person worries persistently about having more attacks. Agoraphobia — fear of places where escape might be difficult — can develop as a complication.
What Causes Panic Attacks?
The exact cause is not fully understood, but factors include genetics, major stress, temperament that is more sensitive to stress, and changes in brain function. The fight-or-flight response activates inappropriately, flooding the body with adrenaline.
Evidence-Based Treatments
CBT: Helps identify and change thought patterns that trigger panic
Exposure Therapy: Gradually facing feared situations in a safe environment
Breathing Techniques: Controlled breathing can abort an attack
Medication: SSRIs, SNRIs, and benzodiazepines (short-term) may be prescribed
When to Seek Help
If panic attacks are interfering with your daily life or you are avoiding situations for fear of an attack, treatment can help you regain control. At Glintcare, our team provides compassionate, effective panic disorder treatment in Kisumu.
