The duration of a panic attack can vary from person to person and from one episode to another. On average, a panic attack typically lasts for about 5 to 20 minutes, but it can be as short as a few minutes or as long as an hour in some cases.
During a panic attack, individuals experience intense fear and discomfort, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as a rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, sweating, trembling, chest pain, dizziness, and a feeling of impending doom or loss of control. The symptoms can be overwhelming and distressing.
After the peak of the panic attack, symptoms usually start to subside gradually. However, it is not uncommon for people to feel exhausted and emotionally drained after the experience.
It's important to note that panic attacks are generally time-limited and are not physically harmful. Nevertheless, the intensity of the symptoms can lead some individuals to fear having future panic attacks, which might contribute to the development of panic disorder.
If you or someone you know is experiencing panic attacks frequently or if they are significantly impacting daily life, it's crucial to seek support from a healthcare professional or mental health specialist. Effective treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication, can help manage and reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks.