A panic attack lasting for an extended period of 26 hours is highly unusual and warrants thorough medical evaluation and investigation. Panic attacks typically reach their peak intensity within a few minutes and usually resolve within 20-30 minutes.
Several factors could contribute to a prolonged and severe panic attack:
Underlying Anxiety/Panic Disorder: If you have a preexisting anxiety or panic disorder, it can make you more susceptible to experiencing prolonged and severe panic attacks.
Substance Use: The use of certain substances, such as stimulants or hallucinogens, can trigger or exacerbate panic attacks.
Stress and Triggers: Extremely stressful situations or exposure to triggering events may lead to prolonged panic attacks.
Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as heart or respiratory problems, can mimic panic attack symptoms or contribute to their severity.
Medication Interactions or Side Effects: It's possible that interactions between medications or side effects from medication could have played a role.
Other Mental Health Conditions: Some psychiatric conditions, such as bipolar disorder or certain personality disorders, can be associated with prolonged panic-like symptoms.
It's crucial to undergo a comprehensive evaluation by healthcare professionals, including psychiatrists and other specialists, to identify the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment. Running tests in the psych ward is an essential step to rule out any medical or physiological conditions that could have contributed to your experience.
Please continue to work closely with your medical team, share all relevant information about your medical history, medications, and recent events to help them make an accurate diagnosis and develop a suitable treatment plan. Everyone's situation is unique, and it's essential to receive personalized care based on your specific needs and circumstances.