Panic disorder is not an exact science. Even though the majority of health experts acknowledge that it largely stems from the subconscious, there seems to be no definite understanding of just what triggers them off. Probably the most likely cause is an unprovoked activation of the fight or flight response.

When we get ourselves into dangerous and life threatening situations, 'fight or flight' is the term used to describe the way our bodies react. An adrenalin rush occurs when we are in danger and need to react very quickly to something and it is this which speeds up the heart, ready to pump more oxygen to our muscles so that we can respond to a life threatening situation. A situation like this requires us to have heightened awareness, extra strength and faster than normal reactions. Unfortunately for those with anxiety disorder it would appear that this reflex gets triggered for no apparent reason. The unexpected rush of adrenalin might be good for saving our life when needed but sadly for those with anxiety disorder it often leads to panic attacks simply because the natural impulse is to worry about what has just happened.

The signs and symptoms involved with panic attacks vary among anxiety sufferers, having said that, the typical symptoms tend to be tightness in the chest, problems breathing, sickness, severe tension, pins and needles and dizziness mixed with the fear that you may pass out. In actual fact, the physical signs and symptoms will be very real regardless of the trigger happening subconsciously, they are not imagined and are far from being in the mind of the sufferer. The actual symptoms often tend to mimic those of a heart problem and can feel very much as real, frequently leading the person to end up admitted into hospital with a suspected heart attack.

Even though anxiety is usually quite curable, presently there aren't any drugs or medications obtainable designed specifically for this problem. The most common treatment which produces the greatest results tend to be those which include the altering of behavioural habits, together with relaxation strategies, change of eating habits and regular exercise. All is not lost though as these kinds of methods are extremely successful in treating anxiety but be well prepared because you cannot afford to be idle, an amount of self-discipline will be needed but this is a tiny price to pay and the end result will pay dividends.