One of the subtypes of anxiety disorder is what is called a panic attack. Panic attacks are really distressing to the individual who is affected by it. He or she looses touch with reality and the end result is that he or she may go to a mental breakdown. Worse thing that could happen in a heart attack or a stroke, especially if the person has an already existing cardiac problem. But panic attack does not happen in a blink of an eye, not instantaneously, but can be on a short period of time. You have to go through several stages of anxiety (usually) before you are about to reach the panic level.

A panic attack is a sudden experience of undesirable physical symptoms coupled with thoughts of impending doom (not being able to breathe, heart attack, making a scene). Despite the fact that the first panic attack may take place in a unique situation, further reoccurrence of panic attacks are unpredictable when we talk about place or time.

After several experiences of panic episodes, the person can become afraid of being a helpless victim of panic once again. He or she finds it difficult to be alone and becomes uneasy when alone, to be in public places, or to venture far from home.

Even when not experiencing an anxiety attack, the person with panic attacks often becomes increasingly nervous and apprehensive. He or she attempts to remain physically and psychologically tense in preparation for the next attack.

One or more undesirable physical symptoms will be apparent in a severe form during an real panic attack, such as dizziness or lightheadedness, tachycardia or increased heart rate, confusion, shortness of breath, and inability to concentrate.

When you find a very good panic attack self help program, it will teach you self help skills you can use to face and successfully deal with panic attacks. You will learn how to handle your worries about the manifestations of an incoming panic attacks and how to control the symptoms themselves.

You will also find out how to venture out into the situations that you once avoided. As you go through it, you will find out about the option of using prescribed medications such as anxiolytics (Valium). Remember to seek a professional advise first. In doing so, you will discover how to help your physician identify and manage any physical manifestations that might be causing or increasing symptoms.