Assessing the Level of Panic Symptoms, Anxiety, and Quality of Life Among People Experiencing Panic Attacks

Panic attacks (PAs) are characterized by heightened activity in the sympathetic nervous system, resulting in a distinct episode of intense fear or discomfort even when no tangible threat is present. According to the American Psychiatric Association (^{APA; 2022}), PAs are not classified as a stand-alone disorder but rather a cluster of physical and psychological symptoms that can occur in the context of other disorders. These symptoms may include an accelerated heart rate, a feeling of suffocation, trembling or shaking, dizziness, and a fear of going crazy, losing control, or death. PAs often coexist with other mental and physical disorders, complicating treatment, prolonging recovery, worsening symptoms, and even posing life-threatening risks, such as substance use and suicide (^{Zhang et al., 2022}). The debilitating nature of PAs can profoundly impact various aspects of daily functioning, including social interactions and occupational performance, ultimately affecting overall quality of life (QOL).

The prevalence of PAs varies across countries, with global lifetime prevalence estimated at 13.2% (^{APA, 2022}). In Egypt, there are no formal reports or studies that inform the prevalence of PAs among the general population. The current study addresses a critical gap by examining the severity of PAs and their impact on individuals' QOL. Understanding these associations is essential for developing targeted mental health interventions and improving overall well-being in the Egyptian context. However, anxiety-related conditions are prevalent in the Egyptian community, as evidenced by several studies targeting various groups, such as students (^{Hammouda et al., 2020}).

Individuals who experience PAs may struggle to anticipate or control them, particularly when the triggers are not apparent. Researchers suggest that the unpredictability of PAs significantly heightens anxiety (^{Goddard, 2017}). Furthermore, individuals experiencing recurrent PAs may develop a condition known as anticipatory anxiety. This emotional state is characterized by cognitive, behavioral, and emotional changes in response to doubts about potential threats. Being in an anxious state increases the likelihood of PAs occurring. Furthermore, experiencing PAs, particularly in their full-blown form, elevates anxiety levels. Living in this vicious cycle leads to depressed mood, negatively affects functionality, and diminishes overall QOL (^{Cackovic et al., 2021}; ^{Malak & Khalifeh, 2023}).

The current study aimed to assess levels of panic symptoms, anxiety,...