b'ChapterHysteria / Panic AttackThe correct definition of hysteria is a subconscious condition caused by psychological stress, which develops as a physical complaint such as blindness.First aiders are more inclined to understand hysteria as being a condition where a person is extremely emotionally upset possibly from learning that a loved one has died or been killed in an accident.How to RecogniseHyperventilation. Shouting and screaming.Sometimes tremors & temporary inability to move limbs. How to ManageAssist the patient to move away from the scene into a quiet environment.Be firm and direct with purposeful and positive conversation.Do not over sympathise.Remain with the patient and maintain calm and quiet demeanour.Do not slap their face. Do not forcibly restrain.The patient should quickly recover, although an assessment by a doctor is recommended.Panic AttackPeople sometimes develop acute anxiety that is over and above or out of proportionto the actual stress they are experiencing. An attack can develop suddenly without warning even waking people up from sleep after a disturbing dream.Panic attacks normally last a few minutes and although frightening, they are quite harmless.How to Recognise The patient often experiences pressure in the chest and palpitations such as a rapid, forceful heart beat along with increased breathing rate.Tension headache, backache and acute nervous anxiety. Sweating, trembling and fear.Difficulty in swallowing and sometimes hyperventilation.How to ManageHave the patient sit or lie down flat with head and shoulders elevated and resting on pillows. Calm, reassure and rest the patient. Encourage the patient to breathe slowly.Assessment by a doctor is required as there may be an underlying medical condition.228 Common Illness and Ailments'