Is It a Panic Attack? Signs, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help

Experiencing sudden shortness of breath, chest tightness, dizziness, and feelings of unreality can be frightening, especially when they come on without warning. These symptoms might make you wonder if you're dealing with a panic attack or even a panic disorder. In this blog, we’ll explore these symptoms, their connection to panic attacks, and what steps you can take to manage and understand them. 1. What Is a Panic Attack? A panic attack is an intense wave of fear or discomfort that peaks within minutes and often includes physical symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, and trembling. These episodes can happen suddenly, even when there’s no clear trigger, and they can be extremely distressing. During a panic attack, your body goes into "fight or flight" mode, releasing stress hormones like adrenaline. This response is intended to protect you from danger, but during a panic attack, it occurs in the absen...