www.anxietyattackstreatmentblog.com Before discussing what causes a panic attack, it is a good idea to learn how to recognize one of these episodes in the first place. Panic attacks are the result of the fight or flight response our body has to stressful or threatening situations. The symptoms of a panic attack might include sweating, hyperventilating, trembling and abdominal cramping. You might also feel dizzy, lightheaded or nauseous. Some will experience an increased heart rate, hot flashes or chest pain. Many complain that there is a feeling of impending doom that accompanies these many physical symptoms as well. So what causes a panic attack to occur? In some cases, the cause of a panic disorder can be a stressful event like graduating from college, getting married or having a baby. A significant loss can also be what causes a panic attack, such as the death of a loved one or a divorce. Some medications can trigger a panic attack, particularly those that contain stimulants like weight loss supplements and cold medications. You can also suffer from panic attacks through substance abuse.