Abstract
Have you ever had a spell when your heart suddenly began to pound and you felt light-headed and shaky? You may have had a panic attack. These episodes are very frightening. People often think they have some life- threatening problem, are going crazy, or are utterly losing control, but these calamities don't really happen. The attack usually lasts only a few minutes and then gradually fades and is completely gone within an hour. The following information may help you understand and cope with these dismaying episodes.