What is a key characteristic of panic attacks?

Panic attacks are characterized by sudden and intense episodes of fear or discomfort that often come on rapidly. A key feature is the severe physical reactions that accompany these attacks. Individuals may experience symptoms such as heart palpitations, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, dizziness, chills, or a sensation of losing control. These physical symptoms can mimic those of serious medical conditions, which might lead individuals to seek emergency care.

In contrast to the physical symptoms, panic attacks do not typically last for several hours; they usually reach their peak within 10 minutes and subside relatively quickly. They are also distinct from being solely associated with prolonged stress, as they can occur unexpectedly and do not require a specific trigger. Lastly, panic attacks can happen at any time, including during wakefulness; they are not limited to sleep. Thus, the correct answer reflects the hallmark of panic attacks being the severe physical reactions that occur during these episodes.