Panic attack does not only strike during daytime but can even occur during nightime. Nocturnal panic attacks can awaken someone from sleep. It can be especially difficult, disorienting, frightening and dangerous. This may cause someone to fear of falling asleep. Many people who suffered from this panic attack are ashamed of what is taking place that they oftentimes chose to hide it. Like any other anxiety attacks, nocturnal panic attacks display the same symptoms including sweating, rapid heart rate, trembling, shortness of breath, hyperventilating and a sense of impending doom.
Most people who have panic attacks at night also experience them during the day.
Nocturnal panic attack has all the major upset and confusion of a daytime attack but can make someone more vulnerable because it’s dark and in the middle of the night. Naturally, it is reasonable to assume that nocturnal panic attacks is pretty much as the daytime attack only that it happens in a less conscious manner.
It is not known what precisely causes a panic attack at night but we know that the brain still functions even asleep. Medical experts say that this can be triggered by certain events particularly stressful event happened before sleeping. Heredity, stress and certain biochemical factors may also play a role.
To avoid panic attacks, it is important to prep one’s self before going to sleep. Reading a relaxing book is very much preferrred as this can instill positive thoughts in one’s mind. Watching televisions especially those that can give negative feelings should be avoided. It is also recommended to stay away from alcohol, caffeine or any unnecessary drugs that will induce a later state of depression. Overall, if a person thinks his condition worsens, it is best to seek professional counseling or medication to overcome the chances of any panic attacks. It is also important to undergo a complete physical examination to determine whether a medical condition other than panic attacks is the cause of the signs and symptoms.
