by S.A.Robb

Created on: July 19, 2010

While dehydration is an uncomfortable feeling, it does not cause panic attacks.  The symptoms of dehydration are similar to those of anxiety or panic attacks, leading some people to think they may be having an attack of some kind.  This is not the case, and is an important distinction to make. 

It is important to make sure that those who suffer from anxiety do not start to associate dehydration, or heat with anxiety or panic attacks.  Once an association is made, it is a difficult one to break. 

Those who do not suffer from an anxiety disorder will be just as uncomfortable, and have the same symptoms as an individual who suffers from anxiety.  The difference being that the individual who has anxiety will feel the symptoms on a greater level.  Once the discomfort kicks in, it is difficult to tell the difference between dehydration symptoms and anxiety or panic attack symptoms. 

When it is too hot people who are predisposed to anxiety will feel the effects of heat more so that the average person.  Symptoms may be light headedness, sweating, anxiousness, or difficulty in breathing.  These symptoms will be even more pronounced if there is humidity mixed in with the heat.  Those who do not have anxiety will suffer from these same symptoms, just not as severe.

Many people who suffer from anxiety are more sensitive to their external environment, especially when it has to do with heat.  This sensitivity is not a bad thing, nor is it something to think of as bad in any way.  In fact it is a good thing because they will always be prepared.  Having a bottle of water on hand, and being layered so that they can take off a sweater or button up and have something cooler on underneath for when it is too warm.

If you find that when you go when it is hot and you often get dehydrated, or start to feel anxious or nervous, take some precautions.  Start by having some water before you leave, also take a bottle of water with you.  Layer your clothes so that you can remove an over layer to help cool you down.  Also watch the news and look at the humidex level.  If the level is high, try to avoid going out.  The news and other health agencies all emphasize that when the humidex level is high it is better to stay indoors and keep cool.  This applies to all people, not just those with anxiety.

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