Panic Attacks

[_Louisa_]

Can panic attacks occur as a result of lack of food for quite a long time?

[Hermia]

Well, your blood sugar will be low if you don't eat for ages. If I go for more than a few hours without food I start to feel dizzy and urg! and end up with a headache.

[_Louisa_]

Thanks for that Hermia, last night I hadn't eaten in about 8 hours due to a long and stressful journey to the airport, and felt very faint (like you described). Had a panic attack in the end (never had one before...) and wondered if the two things could be connected...

[smudge]

You also need to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Good luck.

[Suzysue]

That has happened to me before. It is mainly due to the body having to start producing more adrenaline to keep your body going whilst it doesn't have any food to burn. The increase in adrenaline then causes you heart to beat faster due to the fact that you are breathing more frequently. After a while the increase in heart rate and breathing results in anxious feelings and then the possiblity of a panic attack. It is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about and is just the body's way of keeping you ticking over until you eat. So you are more than likely right to think that you not eating as being linked to your panic attack. To avoid it happening again just make sure you carry some nibbles with you if you suspect it may be a while before you eat. And make sure its slow release food like crisps or flapjacks, and avoid caffiene or chocolate during that time as it can make you feel worse if you're in need of food.