Panic attacks are a type of fear response. They're an exaggeration of your body's normal response to danger, stress or excitement. 

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During a panic attack, physical symptoms can build up very quickly, often lasting between 5-20 minutes.

 

These can include:

• a pounding or racing heartbeat

• feeling faint, dizzy or light-headed

• feeling very hot or very cold

• sweating, trembling or shaking

• nausea (feeling sick)

• pain in your chest or abdomen

• struggling to breathe or feeling like you're choking

• feeling like your legs are shaky or are turning to jelly

• feeling disconnected from your mind, body or surroundings, which are types of dissociation.

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Panic attacks happen at different times for everyone, they may be triggered by particular places, situations or activities. For example, they might happen before a stressful appointment or event. Individuals with panic disorder may experience lots of panic attacks at unpredictable times, and there doesn't seem to be a particular trigger or cause.