Which symptom is typical of a panic attack?

A panic attack is characterized by sudden onset of intense fear or discomfort, which typically includes a variety of symptoms that can be quite distressing. The presence of a rapid heartbeat is a hallmark symptom, reflecting the body's fight-or-flight response as adrenaline levels surge. This sensation can lead to feelings of impending doom or an overwhelming sense of danger, which are both common psychological responses during a panic attack.

Understanding panic attacks also involves recognizing how they can trigger a cascade of physical sensations, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or a sense of unreality. While some individuals may experience additional symptoms such as dizziness or nausea, the rapid heartbeat and feelings of impending doom are particularly emblematic of the panic attack experience, making them significant indicators for diagnosis.

The other symptoms listed do not align with the acute experience of a panic attack. Chronic fatigue and sleep disturbances are more related to ongoing anxiety or depressive disorders rather than the acute episodic nature of panic attacks. Severe headaches and dizziness can occur but are not definitive symptoms associated with panic attacks. Lastly, increased appetite and weight gain do not occur during a panic attack, as the physiological responses usually suppress appetite in the moment of acute stress.