As most of the mental health problems have similar symptoms, it gets difficult for you to recognize what you are actually going through? You might be having a busy day, and then all of a sudden, you get fatigued, irritated, and there is a slight pain in your whole body. Your friends may tell you that you had an attack, but what is it? A panic attack or an anxiety attack?
Being a professional, we have seen basic differences between panic and anxiety attacks. It’s important to know the symptoms so as to get the right treatment. You can either tell the signs to your therapist or can understand it on your own by reading out the below-given section.
What is a panic attack?
One can differentiate between a panic attack and an anxiety attack through the symptoms itself. If you face constant discomfort and fatigue while doing any activity, then it is a panic attack. This condition can happen at any hour of the day, while you are working at your workplace or you’re doing some spontaneous activity at your home.
Below given are some common symptoms of panic attacks. If you feel that you are going through most of the mentioned signs, then you should immediately go for medication.
- Accelerated heartbeat
- Shivering
- Problem while breathing
- Feeling of choking
- Numbness
- Heat sensations
- Sudden fear of death
- Abdominal distress
What is an anxiety attack?
A situation always triggers anxiety attacks. A person might get an anxiety attack in the post-depression period. Unlike a panic attack, anxiety is a response to any situation.
If you are going through some worry or stress form a longer period, then you are more likely to get an anxiety attack. The symptoms of an anxiety attack are both physical and mental, and some of the notable signs are as follows:
- Distress
- Restlessness
- Body aches
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
- Unknown fear
- Constant worry
- High muscle tensions
But you should always consider a slight symptom as an anxiety attack because it can be a physiologic response to any situation by our body.
The most common triggers of anxiety attacks are past situation which has affected the mind of the patiently badly. It can be heartbreak or a fear of losing someone. Overthinking a lot about bad memories, self-isolation can also cause you an anxiety attack.
The primary difference between a panic attack and an anxiety attack:
Initially, the primary reason why most of the people get confused between these attacks is because of the symptoms itself. Some may consider that constant anxiousness is the only reason behind one getting panicked. But if looked in medical terms, then it’s completely wrong.
The basic difference between these two attacks is the length of the symptoms, intensity level, and the triggers. A person who gets an anxiety attack is already going through an anxiety disorder. The reason behind the condition may be a memory that is hard to go off of a stressful situation.
On the other hand, panic attacks are quick. There are not any triggers, and it does not get provoked by any situation. It happens all of a sudden because of overthinking or certain health conditions.
When to do treatment for an anxiety attack or a panic attack?
See whether you are experiencing any of the above symptoms associated with either a panic attack or an anxiety attack. If yes, then you should directly visit a physician or a therapist, whatever comforts you more. Also, if you are going through pregnancy, then it is suggested not to got at a physician because the depressants or tablets may harm you.
If you want to visit a psychiatrist, then speak out every little detailed symptom to them. They will help you to determine the risk of an anxiety attack or panic attack. Book daily sessions, rather than alternate ones, because panic attacks can repeat, and so as the anxiety attack.
If you don’t visit a doctor or a psychiatrist, then you might get affected with long term problems that may lead to a severe heart attack. A therapist will help you to understand the root of the issue, and with continuous sessions, you will be able to overcome these attacks along with additional health benefits.
Are panic attacks or anxiety attacks preventable?
Yes, you can prevent anxiety attacks up to some extent by acknowledging the symptoms and speaking it all to the therapist. They will help you to eliminate the stress and would work on the core issues of anxiety or recurring panic attacks. Other than this, you should also maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eat protein-rich food and exercise regularly. Start meditation to attain mindfulness, because it will help you to understand yourself in a better way!