A person who is going through an anxiety attack will feel lost and confused and may not know what to do. Anxiety attacks often occur without any prior warning, but the strength of the symptoms can differentiate between a panic attack and a potentially dangerous medical condition. Knowing when to reach out for medical attention can vary between whether or not you are able to get the help you need in terms of your health and the fact that there is a potential underlying issue that needs to be resolved. Here we will share when should you go to the hospital for an anxiety attack?
What is an Anxiety Attack?
Panic attacks are an abrupt surge of overwhelming fear or discomfort that peaks within minutes. These attacks may include a range of physical and emotional symptoms, such as a racing heart, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, and a feeling of losing control. Anxiety attacks can range in intensity, but they are typically a reaction to stress, phobias, or other stimuli.
Symptoms of an Anxiety Attack
Symptoms of anxiety attacks typically vary, and many symptoms of anxiety attacks can mimic other health issues, which is why it’s helpful to know what to look for:
Physical Symptoms:
Rapid heartbeat
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Sweating
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Nausea or upset stomach
Chest tightness or pain
Emotional Symptoms:
A sense of imminent threat or danger
Fear of losing control
Disconnection from reality
Intense worry or panic
The symptoms can be unsettling, and in some instances may be confused with a heart attack or other medical crisis.
Knowing the difference between an anxiety attack and a physical health emergency is important for deciding when to head to the hospital.
When to Get Hospitalized for an Anxiety Attac
Figure out when to get emergency medical help can be tough, especially when you’re feeling stressed. But there are signs that could mean it’s time to head to the hospital:
When Symptoms Are Severe and Persistent If a panic attack continues longer than when usual or if symptoms don’t go away to get worse, it is important to be seen by a clinician.
Anxiety attacks usually peak within 10 minutes, but if the symptoms endure or grow more intense after that duration. It could be indicative of something else that should be medically assessed.
Chest Pain or Shortness of Breath a common physical symptom of an anxiety attack is chest pain or tightness. But it can also be a symptom of a heart attack or other serious medical issue.
Otherwise, if chest pain is strong with accompanying shortness of breath, dizziness or fainting, you must go to the hospital immediately.
Don’t wait around to see if it gets better on its own—seek help from a professional as soon as possible.
You’ve Never Had an Anxiety Attack Before If you have never had an anxiety attack before, it is important to get medical attention if you experience symptoms (like a racing heart, difficulty breathing, dizziness, etc.)
You need to rule out any other serious health problems . Like heart which may feel like an anxiety attack but is actually a heart attack or stroke.
You Feel Like You’re Losing Control If your anxiety attack provides you with feelings of “losing control” or “disorientation” or “detached from reality” this is something that’s even more painful and terrifying.
Although these feelings are commonly associated with the anxiety attack itself.
Their persistence or extreme intensity may warrant an actual visit to a hospital to ensure your mental health is accordingly assessed.
You Have a Preexisting Condition
If you have a history of heart disease, asthma or any other chronic medical condition, an anxiety attack is a serious complication.
Existing conditions can be exacerbated by anxiety attacks so it is crucial to get medical attention to eliminate any throwing complications.
What Hospitals Can Do During an Attack of Anxiety
Hospitals have trained professionals who can assess your symptoms, provide immediate relief, and ensure that you’re properly treated. When you go to the hospital for an anxiety attack, here are a few ways they might help:
Doctors will evaluate your symptoms to find out if it is due to anxiety, or another medical issue you might have, like a heart attack. This evaluation might involve blood tests, EKGs or other diagnostic tools.
Assessment and Diagnosis:
The doctors in the hospital could give you some medications to treat the physical symptoms of anxiety such as beta blockers or benzodiazepines. These medications can help calm your nervous system.
Potential Mental Health Support:
Alongside physical evaluations, the hospital staff members might refer you to a mental health professional like a counselor or psychiatrist.
Who can work with you to identify underlying causes of your anxiety and propose a plan for ongoing treatment.
Centralised Reassurance and Monitoring:
Hospitals usually have a controlled environment where healthcare professionals have eyes on you and they also can provide you reassurance which helps create less angst for you and helps ensure you get the right care.
What to Do if You Are Unsure If You Need to Go to the Hospital
If you’re not sure whether your symptoms require a visit to a hospital. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. Here are some options to consider:
Call Your Doctor:
Contact your primary care provider or therapist to get their advice on next steps. They might be able to offer reassurance, or refer you to emergency care if appropriate.
Call Emergency Services:
If you’re having severe symptoms or believe that your situation is an emergency, don’t hesitate to call the emergency services .
Trained medical professionals will be able to help you immediately and will be able to assess if your condition requires transport to a hospital.
Leverage a Support Network:
Discuss your situation with a family member or friend to help you evaluate your circumstances. They can be a source of emotional support and help point you to the right decision.
Summary
But anxiety attacks can be frightening and hard to work through. Knowing when to seek hospital care is an important way to protect both your safety and access to appropriate treatment.
If your symptoms are severe, including chest pain, difficulty breathing, or prolonged or severe anxiety, you should seek medical attention.
They can relieve your anxiety, reassure you, and diagnose any underlying issues that might be increasing your anxiety. Always trust your gut, and if you’re not sure, then reach out to a professional.
1 thought on “When Should You Go to the Hospital for an Anxiety Attack?”