Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health coverage, explores the differences between anxiety and panic attacks.
“While the terms anxiety and panic attack are often used interchangeably, they are different experiences with unique triggers, symptoms, and treatments,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health.
“According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information(NCBI), understanding these differences is crucial for effective recognition and treatment.”
What Is Anxiety?
Everyone experiences anxiety at some point, whether it’s before a job interview while waiting for medical test results, or during other significant life events.
When anxiety occurs, it triggers a series of physiological responses in the body, often referred to as the “fight-or-flight” response. The nervous system is activated, releasing stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. Heart rate increases to pump blood to essential muscles; breathing becomes faster and shallower, and muscles tighten.
Onset of Anxiety
Anxiety can begin at any age but often starts in childhood or adolescence. Stressful life events, changes, or traumas can trigger anxiety symptoms. Anxiety can be short-term, lasting a few minutes or hours, or long-term, persisting for days, weeks, or even years. Chronic anxiety can become a part of daily life if not managed properly.
Symptoms of Anxiety
Symptoms can vary from person to person but often include excessive worry, restlessness, feeling on edge or unable to relax, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, being easily annoyed or frustrated, muscle tension, and sleep problems.
Managing Anxiety
Some practical ways to manage anxiety include regular exercise, a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and relaxation techniques such as deep-breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and yoga.
Professional support, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), is highly effective in treating anxiety disorders helping change negative thought patterns and behaviours. In some cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications to help manage symptoms.
What Is a Panic Attack?
A panic attack is a quick, severe bout of anxiety or discomfort that can occur unexpectedly, without an obvious trigger, or in response to specific stressors. The physical effects are very real during a panic attack; adrenaline levels spike substantially. This adrenaline surge leads to various physical symptoms.
Onset of Panic Attacks
Panic attacks come on suddenly and reach peak intensity within minutes, typically lasting between 5 to 20 minutes, though some symptoms can persist longer. Panic attacks can be a one-time occurrence, but most experience recurring episodes.
Symptoms of a Panic Attack
Common symptoms of a panic attack include a rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling or shaking, chest pain, nausea, dizziness, and numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or face.
Managing Panic Attacks
During an attack, breathing exercises can help calm the nervous system. Slow, deep breaths can reduce hyperventilation and help you feel more in control. Practising grounding techniques, like focusing on physical sensations (touch, smell, sight) can help you stay connected to the present moment and reassure yourself that the attack is temporary and will pass.
Long-term strategies for managing panic attacks include CBT. Identifying and avoiding known triggers can reduce the likelihood of experiencing an attack.
Conclusion
While anxiety and panic attacks share some similarities, they are distinct experiences with unique characteristics and management strategies. Understanding these differences is crucial for adequate recognition and treatment. By fostering awareness and seeking appropriate help, we can better manage these conditions and improve our overall mental well-being. Remember, you’re not alone, and help is available.