How long do nocturnal panic attacks last

A panic attack, during the day or at night, occurs when a person experiences four or more of the following symptoms:. Some people may experience fewer than four of the symptoms listed during an attack. In these cases, a person may have had a limited-symptom panic attack. Panic attacks are related to anxiety. Anxiety can also cause a person to experience physical symptoms. What makes a panic attack different from general anxiety is the speed of onset reaching a peak within 10 minutes and the intensity of the symptoms.

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America , anxiety affects around 40 million adults However, only Before, during, and following a panic attack, a person can try several different methods to calm down. A doctor can assess a person to determine if they have had a panic attack, have panic disorder, or have another condition such as thyroid or heart disease that could present similar symptoms.

A doctor may also refer a person for a mental health assessment. A person may receive a diagnosis of panic disorder if:. Formal treatment of panic attacks will typically involve medications, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. Cognitive behavioral therapy CBT is often the first line of therapy for people who experience panic attacks. In CBT, a therapist helps a person confront and understand their symptoms of panic attack in a controlled, safe environment.

Once the fear is resolved, it can help a person avoid future attacks. In addition to or instead of therapy, a doctor may prescribe one or more medications to help treat anxiety.

Some examples include:. These medications can cause adverse effects. Using benzodiazepines with alcohol or opioid drugs, for example, can lead to life threatening side effects. If a person experiences side effects after taking a medication for panic attacks, they should speak to their doctor.

Therapy and medications are both very effective methods to help prevent future attacks and to make symptoms more manageable. Nighttime panic attacks may be confused with night terrors, however they are different.

Some symptoms are the same ones you may experience with a daytime panic attack, such as rapid heart rate, trembling, sweating, shortness of breath, hyperventilation, feeling too hot or too cold, and a sense of impending doom. But panic attacks that occur at night often involve more problems with breathing, such as shallow, rapid, or uneven breathing. Many people also suffer from muscle tension. They may have muscle cramps or spasms, numbness, or a tingling sensation.

Others may experience sudden changes in body temperature and some even feel temporarily paralyzed. Certain health conditions, particularly in those with anxiety disorders, increase the likelihood of a nighttime panic attack.

However, when these issues occur in individuals with panic disorders, the chances of having a nighttime attack increase significantly. These include:. If you have had a nighttime panic, you may fear having another.

To prevent a chronic pattern of attacks, start by practicing healthy sleep habits. Calm your brain before bed by keeping a regular sleep schedule. Avoid the computer or other electronic screens.

Establish a relaxing bedtime ritual. Take a warm bath with lavender, do some gentle yoga, or write in your journal. Eating well and exercising also helps. Get treatment for any underlying medical conditions will also mitigate the effects of nighttime panic attacks. One of the biggest problems with these attacks is that they happen at night and without warning, so you are unable to prepare.

If you do find yourself in the grip of a nocturnal panic attack, try to breathe deeply, relax all your muscles and hold onto thoughts or images that make you feel safe and peaceful.

Taking control of your breathing is an important first step. You may wish to practice mindful breathing when you are not in the middle of a panic attack, so that it is easier to do during an attack. Some people listen to a guided breathing exercise or keep a simple list of what you need to do next to the bed. Calm your breathing by taking regular breaths in through your nose and then out through your lips. Do this to the count of five, hold one second, then do a slow exhale to the count of four.

Wait for two seconds and then repeat. Keep your mind on your breathing. Do this repetitive breathing as many times as necessary, until your heart rate slows and your symptoms ease. If you want to read before bed, make sure you read from an actual book or magazine, as opposed to a screen. It is always better to seek help as soon as you identify the symptoms.

You could speak to your GP about your concerns or get in touch with Priory. We can provide you with access to expert psychiatrists, therapists and other mental health professionals, who will be able to support you with your challenges. For details of how Priory can provide you with assistance regarding mental health and wellbeing, please call or click here to submit an enquiry form.

For professionals looking to make a referral, please click here. How to cope with panic attacks at night. Additional Information. Home Blog How to cope with panic attacks at night. Get in touch today. Contact Us. Call our Enquiry Line Panic Attacks Information. Can't find what you're looking for?