by VK Freelance

Created on: July 06, 2009   Last Updated: July 07, 2009

First aid for panic attacks

Panic attacks are a major part of many anxiety disorders. They are a crippling, unpredictable symptom that can appear at any time, for any reason. The fear of getting an panic attack in public can cause constant worry and dread, and when faced with an attack, having someone who knows what to do can be a life line to reality.

Symptoms that someone is having a panic attack:

I. They get sweaty and may start to glance around anxiously, complaining of feeling closed in

II. They may complain their heart is racing, their pulse may be fast

III. They could complain of chest pain

IV. Their breathing could become shallow and laboured

V. They may stumble, feel faint, and dizzy and need to sit down

VI. Hands start to tingle, lips tingling

VII. They may become very pale

VIII. They may look very afraid

IX. They may complain about feeling as if they are choking

First things first, this COULD be a heart attack. They symptoms are similar, and a first aider won't be able to tell the difference, so if there is ANY doubt, call the ambulance; however saying this, I would also say talk to them, do they often suffer from panic attacks? They will probably recognize it for what it is if they have. If they haven't, then again call the ambulance.

First Aid:

1. Immediately sit them down somewhere QUIET, away from crowds and reassure them gently. If there is nowhere quiet, sit them down anywhere

2. Don't panic! They need you to stay calm.

3. Ask them if they suffer from panic attacks

4. If they do treat them for panic attacks; if not call the ambulance immediately

5. Tell them to take slow, deep breaths from pursed lips (as if blowing out a candle)

6. Tell them that they CAN breathe, just relax

7. Talk to them reassuringly

8. Ask them to clench and relax each of their muscles from their feet to their head

9. Stay with them as long as they need you

10. If these symptoms are new to them or something is different, call an ambulance

11. Mostly the symptoms will be gone in less than an hour, often in less than half an hour.

The most important thing to do for someone who is suffering from panic attack is not to panic and not to say things like "it's all in your head," or "you're imagining it," this will not help the situation. Unless you have suffered from panic attacks, you have no idea how life destroying they can be. Try and be sensitive to their plight. Also don't ask them questions which will make them panic more, like "Do you think you are having a heart attack?" or "Can't you breathe?" keep positive, tell them they are able to breathe, that everything is alright. Chat to them, this will be very effective at helping them calm down, and remember if there is any doubt that this is a panic attack, CALMLY call the ambulance.

Dealing with anxiety and panic is very hard for the person and their friends and family but knowing what to do can make all the difference.

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