TERROR

TERROR

Sight:

• Wide, staring eyes, dilated pupils
• Pale, clammy skin
• Shadows looming larger than life, distorted shapes
• Quick, jerky movements
• Flickering lights or darkness that seems to pulsate

Sound:

• High-pitched, desperate screams or whimpers
• Heavy, erratic breathing or gasps
• Thumping heartbeat, often described as pounding in the ears
• Sudden, sharp noises or a deafening silence that heightens every small sound
• Footsteps echoing, whether approaching or retreating

Touch:

• Cold sweats, skin prickling with goosebumps
• Trembling limbs, an icy grip around the heart
• A sudden drop in temperature or the oppressive heat of a panic
• Clenched muscles, a tightness in the chest
• The roughness of a wall against one’s back as they lean away from a threat

Smell:

• The metallic scent of blood or the acrid smell of sweat
• Musty odors of neglected or confined spaces
• The sharp tang of ozone before a storm, often associated with a sense of impending doom

Taste:

• A dry mouth, the bitter taste of adrenaline
• The sour taste of fear, often described as bile rising in the throat
• An unpleasant, metallic taste lingering on the tongue

Internal Sensations of Terror

1. Heart Rate Increase: Rapid heartbeat or palpitations.
2. Breathing Changes: Shortness of breath, rapid or shallow breathing.
3. Sweating: Excessive sweating, especially on the palms and forehead.
4. Chills or Hot Flashes: Sudden coldness or waves of heat.
5. Muscle Tension: Tightening of muscles, trembling or shaking.
6. Nausea: Feeling sick to the stomach, butterflies in the stomach.
7. Dizziness: Lightheadedness or a feeling of faintness.
8. Dry Mouth: Lack of saliva leading to a dry, sticky mouth.
9. Chest Pain: Tightness or discomfort in the chest.
10. Adrenaline Surge: A sudden rush of energy, often described as a “fight or flight” response.

External Sensations of Terror

1. Wide Eyes: Eyes opened wide, often with dilated pupils.
2. Facial Expressions: Expressions of fear, such as raised eyebrows, wide-open mouth.
3. Pale Skin: Skin may appear pale or ashen.
4. Cold Sweat: Visible perspiration, often cold to the touch.
5. Body Posture: Defensive or protective posture, such as hunched shoulders, crossed arms.
6. Voice Changes: Higher pitch, quivering voice, or difficulty speaking.
7. Movement: Restless movements, pacing, or freezing in place.
8. Shaking: Visible trembling of the hands, legs, or entire body.
9. Crying: Tears, sobbing, or other signs of distress.
10. Involuntary Reactions: Startle reflex, jumping at sudden noises or movements.