Anxiety
Understanding Panic Attacks
Panic attacks are sudden surges of intense fear with strong physical symptoms. Learn what happens during a panic attack, what can help and when to seek care.
What is a panic attack?
A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear or discomfort that reaches a peak within minutes. It can happen in a stressful situation or seemingly out of the blue — even during sleep.
Common symptoms
- Pounding or racing heart
- Sweating, trembling or shaking
- Shortness of breath or a feeling of choking
- Chest discomfort
- Nausea or stomach upset
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Chills or hot flushes
- Numbness or tingling
- Feeling detached or unreal
- Fear of losing control or dying
Because symptoms overlap with heart and breathing problems, it’s important to seek medical care if you are unsure what is happening.
Why panic attacks happen
Panic attacks involve a sudden activation of the body’s fight-or-flight response. Stress, genetics, caffeine or stimulants, and sensitivity to body sensations can all contribute. After one attack, people may start watching for symptoms, which can make further attacks more likely.
What can help during an attack
- Remind yourself that the sensations are uncomfortable but will pass.
- Slow your breathing, focusing on a long, gentle out-breath.
- Ground yourself in your surroundings.
- Try not to flee the situation if you are safe — staying can teach your brain the situation isn’t dangerous.
Panic disorder
Panic disorder involves recurrent, unexpected panic attacks and at least a month of persistent worry about more attacks or changes in behavior to avoid them. It is a type of anxiety disorder. These patterns can occur with panic disorder, but only a qualified healthcare professional can provide a diagnosis.
Treatment
CBT, including interoceptive exposure, is highly effective for panic disorder. Some medications, such as SSRIs, can also help.
When to seek professional help
Consider contacting a doctor or licensed mental health professional if:
- You have had more than one unexpected panic attack.
- You worry about having another attack or avoid places because of it.
- You have chest pain, trouble breathing or fainting — seek urgent medical care to rule out other causes.
Only a qualified professional can make a diagnosis, and reaching out early is always reasonable.
If you’re thinking about harming yourself or are in immediate danger, call your local emergency number. In the US, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).Crisis resources in other countries.
Explore care optionsFrequently asked questions
Can a panic attack hurt me?
How long does a panic attack last?
References
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About this article
Written by
ExploreMentalHealth Editorial Team
Our editors research and write every article using government health agencies, professional medical organizations and peer-reviewed research, following our published editorial standards.
- First published
- September 15, 2026
- Last updated
- September 22, 2026
- Last medically reviewed
- Review pending