October 24th, 2009 by admin

Panic attacks are very difficult to understand, because it’s not fully known what causes them. There are many theories in the medical and mental health communities, but so far, no one has developed a definitive answer as to the cause of these terrifying episodes. Let’s take a look at some of those theories. Understanding what may cause them is the key to figuring out how to control them.

Excess Adrenaline

A lot of people in the medical community believe excess adrenaline is probably the most likely culprit. Adrenaline is a hormone that is produced in the body as a response to stress. It causes an effect that is known as the “fight or flight response”.

In nature, fight or flight helps creatures escape from potential predators. It can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and an immediate need to urinate. This helps lighten the body in order to run away more quickly. It also causes rapid heartbeat and other symptoms in order to help the body prepare to fight.

As you can see, the symptoms caused by adrenaline mirror a lot of the symptoms of panic attacks. This is one reason why doctors believe adrenaline could be one of the common culprits.

Hyperventilation

Hyperventilation is another potential cause. Hyperventilation occurs sometimes when you breathe too quickly or your breathing is too shallow. It can cause an imbalance in the oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in your body, and it can lead to a number of symptoms that are similar to those of panic attacks.

Symptoms can include rapid breathing, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, weakness, tingling hands and feet, a rapid heartbeat, and other symptoms that may lead you to believe you are having a heart attack. This fear can lead to worsening symptoms that spiral out of control.

Food Allergies and Sensitivities

Many people are allergic of sensitive to certain foods and don’t realize it. These allergies don’t always cause the classic hives and breathing problems that signify anaphylactic shock. Sometimes the symptoms are similar to heart attack or other problems, and the fear that something is devastatingly wrong can trigger extreme anxiety.

If you think you may have allergies, try keeping a food diary. Write down everything you eat or drink in a day. Try to figure out if there are commonalities between the things you consume on days when you have an attack.

Undiagnosed Illnesses

Undiagnosed conditions like heart disease and diabetes may be one cause of panic attacks. It is important to be seen by a doctor to figure out whether an underlying illness could be causing your attacks. If so, getting it treated could make your panic go away. If not, then you may feel less anxiety, which could ease your symptoms greatly.

Understanding panic attacks is the key to treating them! Visit PaniCalm.com to find out in-depth treatment information and take back your life!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tara_Tyler

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