How long does it take to become normal after a panic attack?

Question

Hi doctor,

Last night, I had a bad panic attack with shortness of breath, shaking, heart racing, and chest pains. Today, I have chest soreness and discomfort. Is this normal? When will it stop? I have anxiety, and I am prone to anxiety attacks, but none with chest pain. I am on regular Zoloft 75 mg.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Fast heart rate (palpitations), chest pain or heaviness, and breathing difficulty are all observed during a panic attack. These are classic symptoms of panic disorder. Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor given in panic attacks. A panic attack may take up to 48 hours to settle down, so just do not worry. I suggest you keep on taking 75 mg of Sertraline tablet. If possible, you can ask your doctor to add an anti-anxiety drug like Clonazepam or Alprazolam 0.5 mg once daily at sleep time. They are going to lower your anxiety levels. It is completely normal to have some problems after a panic attack for the next 24 to 48 hours.

I hope this helps.

Please revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.