Panic attacks usually happen when the person has been feeling anxious without realising it, then an uncontrollable feeling takes over. Different symptoms occur with different people but common symptoms are palpitations ( being conscious of your heart beating loudly) sweaty palms or tingling in the hands and arms. As this may be the first time they have had these feelings, they think they are going to die, but no one has died from a panic attack.
It can be controlled, the cause of the anxiety can be found and therefore the panic attacks become less until they stop.