What Are Anxiety Attacks?
While "anxiety attack" isn't a clinical term in the DSM-5 (unlike panic attacks), it's commonly used to describe periods of intense anxiety symptoms. Anxiety attacks typically build gradually in response to stress or worry and can last for varying periods of time.
Unlike panic attacks which peak within 10 minutes, anxiety attacks may develop over hours or days and can persist for extended periods.
Physical Signs of Anxiety Attacks
1. Muscle Tension
Chronic muscle tightness, especially in the shoulders, neck, and jaw, is a hallmark of anxiety attacks. This tension may build gradually over time.
2. Fatigue
Persistent tiredness or exhaustion, even after rest, is common during anxiety attacks. The mental effort of managing anxiety can be physically draining.
3. Restlessness
Feeling unable to sit still, constantly fidgeting, or experiencing an inner sense of agitation.
4. Rapid Heartbeat
While less intense than panic attacks, anxiety attacks can cause increased heart rate or palpitations that may come and go.
5. Headaches
Tension headaches or migraines triggered by stress and anxiety are common physical symptoms.
6. Digestive Issues
Stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, or irritable bowel symptoms often accompany anxiety attacks.
7. Shortness of Breath
Feeling like you can't take a deep breath or experiencing shallow breathing patterns.
8. Sweating
Excessive sweating, especially in the palms, underarms, or face, even without physical exertion.
9. Dizziness
Lightheadedness or feeling unsteady, particularly during periods of intense worry.
Cognitive & Emotional Signs
1. Excessive Worry
Persistent, uncontrollable worry about various aspects of life, often focusing on worst-case scenarios.
2. Difficulty Concentrating
Trouble focusing on tasks, mind going blank, or inability to pay attention due to racing thoughts.
3. Irritability
Feeling on edge, easily frustrated, or having a short temper during periods of heightened anxiety.
4. Sleep Disturbances
Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restless, unsatisfying sleep.
5. Sense of Impending Danger
Persistent feeling that something bad is about to happen, even without a clear threat.
6. Avoidance Behaviors
Avoiding situations, people, or places that trigger anxiety symptoms.
Anxiety Attacks vs. Panic Attacks: Key Differences
| Characteristic | Anxiety Attack | Panic Attack |
|---|---|---|
| Onset | Gradual buildup over time | Sudden and intense |
| Duration | Hours to days | Peaks within 10 minutes, lasts up to 30 minutes |
| Intensity | Mild to moderate, varies | Severe and overwhelming |
| Trigger | Often in response to stressor | Can occur without warning |
| Fear | Worry about future events | Fear of immediate danger or death |
Early Warning Signs
Recognizing early warning signs can help you take action before an anxiety attack intensifies:
- •Increased worry about everyday situations
- •Trouble sleeping or changes in sleep patterns
- •Physical tension building in your body
- •Avoidance of situations that previously didn't bother you
- •Increased irritability or mood changes
- •Difficulty making decisions
How Long Do Anxiety Attacks Last & Tracking with a Panic Attack App
Unlike panic attacks with their predictable timeline, anxiety attacks can vary significantly in duration. They may last anywhere from several minutes to hours, or even persist for days at a lower intensity. A panic attack app can help you track duration patterns and identify what makes your anxiety attacks longer or shorter.
The gradual onset and variable duration make anxiety attacks distinct from panic attacks, though both conditions can be equally distressing and benefit from professional treatment and symptom tracking.
When to Seek Professional Help
Consider seeking help from a mental health professional if:
- •Anxiety symptoms interfere with daily activities, work, or relationships
- •You avoid situations due to anxiety
- •Anxiety symptoms persist for six months or longer
- •You experience depression or substance use alongside anxiety
- •Self-help strategies aren't providing relief
Evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and medication can be highly effective for managing anxiety disorders.
Do You Experience Anxiety Attacks? Self-Assessment Checklist
While anxiety attacks aren't officially defined in the DSM-5, they typically involve persistent worry and tension. Use this interactive checklist to assess whether you're experiencing anxiety attack symptoms that may require professional support.
Anxiety Attack Symptom Checker
Check the symptoms you've experienced during your episodes:
Important: This is an educational tool, not a diagnostic instrument. If you're experiencing these symptoms, please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.
Track Your Anxiety & Panic Attack Patterns with Our App
Whether you experience anxiety attacks or panic attacks, understanding your patterns is key to management. Abler is the leading panic attack app that helps you track symptoms, identify triggers, and share insights with healthcare providers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Anxiety Attack Signs
What are the warning signs of an anxiety attack?
Early warning signs of an anxiety attack include increased worry, restlessness, muscle tension, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and sleep disturbances. Physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, sweating, and digestive issues may gradually build over hours or days before intensifying.
How do anxiety attack symptoms differ from panic attack symptoms?
Anxiety attack symptoms typically build gradually and can last for hours or days, while panic attack symptoms come on suddenly and peak within 10 minutes. Anxiety attacks involve more persistent worry about future events, while panic attacks involve intense fear of immediate danger or death. Anxiety attacks are also less intense but more sustained than panic attacks.
Can you stop an anxiety attack once it starts?
While you may not be able to completely stop an anxiety attack immediately, you can reduce its intensity and duration through techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, grounding exercises, and cognitive restructuring. Regular practice of these techniques makes them more effective during anxiety attacks.
What physical symptoms are most common during anxiety attacks?
The most common physical symptoms of anxiety attacks include muscle tension (especially in shoulders and neck), fatigue, headaches, digestive problems, rapid heartbeat, sweating, shortness of breath, and dizziness. These symptoms may fluctuate in intensity throughout the anxiety attack.
When should I see a doctor about anxiety attack symptoms?
Consult a healthcare provider if anxiety symptoms persist for six months or longer, interfere with daily activities or relationships, cause you to avoid situations, are accompanied by depression or substance use, or if self-help strategies aren't providing relief. Consider using a panic attack app to track your symptoms and share detailed data with your healthcare provider. Early professional intervention can significantly improve outcomes.
Are anxiety attacks a sign of an anxiety disorder?
Frequent anxiety attacks may indicate an anxiety disorder such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Anxiety Disorder, or specific phobias. However, occasional anxiety in response to stress is normal. If anxiety attacks are recurring, intense, and impacting your quality of life, a mental health professional can provide proper diagnosis and treatment.
Related Resources
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. If you're experiencing symptoms of anxiety attacks, please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.