The Paralyzing Effects of a Panic Attack
People who experience panic attacks describe the paralyzing effects that hold them like a vise. The symptoms of a panic attack come on suddenly, leaving a person breathless and frightened. Yet, understanding this disorder can lead to successful treatment and a life of freedom.
Panic Attacks and Paralysis
There are several connections between paralysis and panic attacks. First, there is a psychological aspect. The main feature of an attack is an unmistakable fear that overwhelms the person. This comes on suddenly and with no warning. On an emotional level, the person has feelings of choking, dying, losing control or going crazy. All of these feelings have no basis in the physical body, but come from the mind. Yet, all of these emotions are very real. At this moment in the panic attack, the mind is paralyzed by these thoughts and is unable to separate these false beliefs from reality. When a person is in a panic attack, they will not respond to assurances from well meaning friends or family to "relax" and "stay calm". They simply can't do that.
The second stage of paralysis associated with a panic attack comes on the physical level. Shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea or dizziness make a person incapable of moving. Since panic attacks come on suddenly, this physical paralysis, or cessation of normal movement is especially dangerous. Many people who experience repeated panic attacks eventually confine themselves to their homes for fear of getting injured in their work environment or while driving. Although a panic attack can be relatively short, from seconds to about 20 minutes, this can be a lifetime to the person who is experiencing it. Getting proper treatment for this disorder can allow people to enter life again with confidence.
Sleep Paralysis and Panic Attacks
A third connection between paralysis and panic attacks is an interesting and sometimes, little known event. Sleep paralysis is a brief period in which a person is unable to perform any voluntary movements. This condition may occur at the beginning of sleep or immediately upon awakening. It is not considered to be harmful, but does leave the person feeling very frightened. The paralysis leaves when a sound is heard or someone touches the person. Medical research has found that people who experience daytime panic attacks have a greater chance of experiencing this type of sleep paralysis as well. It's good to remember that panic attacks can be controlled and even eliminated with a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
