Limited symptom attack

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A limited symptom attack (LSA), also referred to as a limited symptom panic attack (LPA), is a milder, less comprehensive form of panic attack, with fewer than four panic related symptoms being experienced (APA 1994). For example, a sudden episode of intense dizziness or trembling accompanied by fear that something terrible is about to happen. Many people with panic disorder have a mixture of full blown and limited symptom attacks. LSAs often manifest in anxiety disorders, phobias, panic disorder, and agoraphobia. However, experiencing an LSA is not necessarily indicative of a mental disorder. Often persons recovering from or being treated for panic attacks and panic disorder will experience LSAs.

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Signs and symptoms

According to the DSM-5-TR, during an LSA, fewer than four of the following symptoms would be experienced, in contrast to a full blown panic attack, which must include four or more symptoms.

Duration

As with a panic attack, an LSA typically peaks in 10 minutes. However, attacks can be as short as one to five minutes or can form a series of episodes waxing and waning for a period of hours.

References

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