WHAT CAUSES THE SYMPTOMS OF A PANIC ATTACK?
Adapted from “Mastery of Your Anxiety and Panic”, D.H. Barlow and M.G. Craske, Graywind Publicatons, Albany NY, 1994. When confronted with a real or perceived threat, the automatic “fight or flight” response may be triggered to prepare the body for immediate action. This evolutionary development in many organisms normally functions for survival and protection. It may become a panic attack when the emergency response occurs in a situation where it is not appropriate. Although the symptoms may be uncomfortable and frightening, they are not dangerous. The brain activates the sympathetic nervous system, causing the release of adrenaline from the adrenal glands. This may be experienced as a hot flush sensation. The rate and strength of the heartbeat increases to supply more oxygen to the tissues. Contraction or expansion of different blood vessels divert blood from the skin, fingers, and toes to the large muscles. This reduces bleeding in case of an “attack”, and may cause a feeling of cold
