Panic attacks can become more frequent during menopause. These are sudden episodes of intense fear that trigger severe physical reactions, even when there’s no real danger or immediate threat.
During a panic attack, you may think you’re losing control, having a heart attack, or even dying. The physical symptoms, such as a racing heart, shortness of breath, or chest pain, are often more intense than those associated with general anxiety.
When estrogen levels drop during perimenopause and menopause, cortisol levels tend to rise. High levels of cortisol can increase stress and anxiety, potentially triggering a full-blown panic attack. Anxiety affects one in three menopausal women and may contribute to panic attacks. Some women may even develop a panic disorder during menopause.
It’s essential to recognize that panic attacks and anxiety attacks are different. While both can be linked to hormonal changes during menopause and significantly impact a woman’s quality of life, panic attacks are typically more severe and abrupt in onset.