Causes Of Panic Attacks

When you are stressed and in danger, the body has a natural response of speeding up your heart and making you breathe faster. A panic attack occurs when this response happens but there is no danger.

Experts do not know for sure what causes panic attacks but it is believed that they may be caused by an imbalance of brain chemicals and that panic attacks run in families. They are also believed to be brought on by:

• Depression
  
• Alcohol abuse
  
• Major life transitions such as a new job, marriage or having a baby
• Stressful events in your life
• Stimulant use (caffeine, amphetamines or nicotine)
• Some medications that are used to treat heart problems and asthma
• Drug use (marijuana or cocaine)
  
• Withdrawal from some medications
• Physical illness
  
• Medical conditions such as an overactive thyroid, heart or breathing problems

Also there is a higher chance of panic attacks if a parent has depression or bipolar disorder.