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How Do Anger Attack Symptoms Differ From Panic?

August 8, 2019

Dr. Srikanth Reddy

#Doctor for Panic Disorder

#Best Psychiatrist in Indore

#Best Psychologist and De-Addiction Specialist in Indore

 

It’s not unusual for people who have panic disorder, agoraphobia, or another anxiety disorder to experience frustration because of their situation. You may blame yourself or others for your condition, further escalating your sense of anger and resentment. Sometimes this frustration can develop into anger—anger toward yourself, anger at your condition or anger toward others.

Researchers have conducted studies on what they term “anger attacks” in depressed and anxious individuals. They conclude that there is a certain likeness between anger attacks and panic attacks. The following describes the symptoms of anger attacks and panic attacks, followed by an explanation of the differences between the two.

Symptoms of Anger Attacks

According to researchers, anger attacks are characterized by the occurrence of at least 4 of the following symptoms:

  • Intense fear or anxiety
  • Hot or cold flashes
  • Feeling like attacking others
  • Actually attacking others
  • Throwing or destroying objects
  • Heart pounding or racing
  • Chest pains, tightening, or discomfort
  • Excessive sweating
  • Shaking or trembling
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Tingling or itching skin
  • Fear of losing control

Symptoms of Panic Attacks

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition is a handbook used by treatment providers in determining one’s diagnosis. Shortened to the DSM 5, this manual contains valuable definitions of symptoms and disorders. According to the DSM 5, a panic attack is characterized by four or more of the following symptoms:

  • Fear of losing control or going crazy
  • Fear of dying
  • Numbness or tingling sensations (paresthesias)
  • Chills or hot flushes
  • Heart palpitations, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rate
  • Excessive sweating
  • Trembling or shaking
  • Sensations of shortness of breath or smothering
  • The feeling of choking
  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Nausea or abdominal distress
  • Feeling dizzy, unsteady, lightheaded, or faint
  • Feelings of unreality (derealization) or being detached from oneself (depersonalization)

The Difference between Symptoms of Anger Attacks and Panic Attacks

It’s clear to see the similarities between the symptoms of an anger attack and a panic attack. Researchers point out that both produce many of the same sudden and intense physical and emotional sensations. But, they also note some differences. These researchers propose that anger attacks typically happen in condition in which an individual feels emotionally trapped rather than as the result of fear and anxiety that is often associated with panic attacks. In addition, the criteria for anger attacks also include:

  • Irritable feelings in the past 6 months
  • Angry overreaction to small irritations
  • 1 or more anger attacks experienced in past month
  • Inappropriate anger directed towards others

If you feel you are experiencing anger attacks, talk to your doctor or mental healthcare provider. In addition to developing an anger management plan, your doctor may prescribe medications to help decrease your symptoms.

 

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