In short: A panic attack is a sudden period of intense fear or discomfort that may involve a racing heart, sweating, trembling, breathing difficulty, dizziness, nausea, chest discomfort or a feeling of losing control. Having one panic attack does not automatically mean you have panic disorder. Professional assessment may be useful when attacks recur or fear of another attack begins affecting everyday life.

A panic attack can seem to arrive suddenly — at home, at work, while travelling, or sometimes even during sleep.

Your heart may begin racing, your breathing changes, and your mind may tell you that something dangerous is happening.

This Mental Care guide explains common panic attack symptoms, how panic differs from ongoing anxiety, and when professional support may be appropriate.

What is a panic attack?

A panic attack is a sudden wave of intense fear or discomfort accompanied by psychological and physical symptoms.

It may occur even when there is no obvious immediate danger.

What are the symptoms of a panic attack?

• Racing or pounding heart.
• Sweating.
• Trembling.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Dizziness or weakness.
• Nausea or stomach discomfort.
• Chest discomfort.
• Tingling or numbness.
• Fear of losing control.
• A strong sense that something terrible is about to happen.

How long does a panic attack last?

Symptoms often rise rapidly and then begin to settle. The exact duration can vary, so duration alone should not be used to diagnose a panic attack.

What is the difference between panic and anxiety?

Anxiety may develop gradually and remain connected to worries, uncertainty or ongoing stress.

A panic attack is usually more sudden and intense, with a rapid increase in fear and physical symptoms.

Read: Psychological and Physical Symptoms of Anxiety

Does one panic attack mean panic disorder?

No.

Panic disorder involves recurrent unexpected panic attacks together with ongoing concern or behavioural changes related to fear of future attacks.

Why do panic attacks happen?

There is no single explanation that applies to everyone.

Biological, psychological and environmental factors may interact, and for some people fear of physical sensations can become part of the panic cycle.

What should you do during a panic attack?

Remind yourself what may be happening

If these symptoms have previously been assessed as panic, remind yourself that your body's alarm system is highly activated and that the wave can settle.

Slow your breathing

Try to make your breathing calmer rather than taking repeated rapid breaths.

Bring attention to your surroundings

Notice what you can see, hear and physically feel around you.

Prioritise safety

If symptoms are new, unusual or medically concerning, seek appropriate medical assessment rather than assuming they are caused by panic.

When should physical symptoms be medically assessed?

Seek urgent medical care for new or severe chest pain, fainting, severe breathing difficulty or other symptoms that could represent a medical emergency.

How is panic disorder treated?

Treatment may include psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, medication in some cases, or a combination depending on professional assessment.

When should you seek professional support?

Consider speaking with a professional when:

• Panic attacks keep happening.
• You are constantly worried about another attack.
• You begin avoiding travel, places or activities.
• Your work or education is affected.
• Your sleep or relationships are affected.

Where can you find mental health support in Egypt?

If you are searching for a mental health platform in Egypt, review the professional's specialty, experience, session type and availability before choosing.

Mental Care allows you to browse doctors and mental health specialists and compare available options before continuing your booking through the app.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a panic attack dangerous?

A panic attack can feel extremely frightening, but new or severe physical symptoms should still be medically evaluated when appropriate.

Can panic attacks cause chest pain?

Chest discomfort can occur during panic, but new or severe chest pain should not automatically be attributed to anxiety.

Can panic attacks happen during sleep?

Yes. Panic attacks can sometimes occur during sleep.

Does one panic attack mean panic disorder?

No. Panic disorder involves recurrent unexpected attacks and persistent worry or behavioural changes related to future attacks.

Can panic disorder be treated?

Yes. Psychotherapy and medication are among the treatment approaches used, depending on individual assessment.

Read More on Mental Care

• Psychological and Physical Symptoms of Anxiety
• Normal Anxiety vs Anxiety Disorder
• Therapist vs Psychiatrist
• How to Choose the Right Therapist
• Browse Mental Health Specialists

Content last updated: August 19, 2026