When the brain senses danger, the body activates an alarm response. This may cause a racing heart, sweating, shaking, chest tightness, rapid breathing, nausea, dizziness or tingling. The symptoms are real and may create a fear of losing control or having a serious illness.
Recurrent unexpected panic attacks should be assessed to exclude heart, thyroid, blood-glucose or medication-related causes. Cognitive behavioural therapy can help people understand and change their reactions to bodily sensations; medication may also be appropriate.
TCM may offer supportive care for sleep, emotional and digestive symptoms, but should not encourage indefinite avoidance of feared situations. First-time or severe chest pain, breathing difficulty or fainting should be treated as a possible medical emergency.
During panic, ensure safety, return attention to slower breathing and visible surroundings, and remember the surge will subside. Appropriate assessment and follow-up still matter to interrupt the fear cycle.
