Panic attacks can be very frightening to those who suffer from them. At times, they may seem so bad that sufferers fear they may be having a heart attack or even dying. The good news is that nobody has ever died from a panic attack and the symptoms can be treated.

What are the main panic attack symptoms? There are literally hundreds of panic attack symptoms and sufferers can have anywhere from one symptom to all of them. The most common panic attack symptoms are:

· Rapid heart rate,

· Sweating,

· Trembling,

· Hyperventilation or shortness of breath,

· Chills,

· Hot flushes,

· Nausea, · Chest pains,

· Headache or migraines,

· Dizziness,

· Feeling of fainting,

· Trouble swallowing or tightness in throat,

· A feeling as though you are going to die.

The causes of panic attacks It is not really known what the causes of a panic attack are, although it is believed that stress, hereditary and other factors can be main contributors to the condition.

It is a well-known medical fact that the body reacts to situations instinctively. A good example of this is the fight or flight response. When a person feels that they are in danger, the body instinctively speeds up the heart rate and breathing to prepare for a life or death situation. Panic attacks have many of the same occurrences, even though there is no reason for the body to have this reaction.

Using relaxation techniques to relieve panic attack symptoms:

Panic attacks can be treated with medications, such as antidepressants. But for those who are looking for a holistic approach and would like to treat or learn to control their condition naturally, the best alternative is often relaxation.

It is important to understand that relaxation is far more than just getting away from the every day stresses and putting your feet up. Relaxation is an intentional act that will bring you peace of mind.

By using relaxation methods effectively, you will be able to lessen the duration and severity of the symptoms and make them easier to live with. One useful relaxation technique is to lay in a comfortable position and concentrate on your breathing. Once you feel calm, begin to focus on the parts of your body that are tense and visualize the tension melting away.

Continue to breathe slowly and regularly and let your mind float away to a peaceful place. Make sure not to focus on thoughts or worries that may cause you tension. While you are lying there, slowly tighten one muscle at a time in your body, then release it.

To ensure that your relaxation techniques are working to help you reduce the effects of your panic attacks, revise some of the other things in your life that may contribute to your panic attacks. Make sure that you are getting enough sleep, staying away from caffeine and getting plenty of regular exercise.