Someone having a panic attack may think they are dying or have a sensation that they are outside of their own body.
In contrast to the often ever-present feelings of anxiety, a panic attack usually comes on suddenly and unexpectedly. Panic attacks are characterized by a racing heart, quick and shallow breaths, chest pain, dizziness, and feelings of dread or doom. Someone having a panic attack may think they are dying or have a sensation that they are outside of their own body.