The important thing is not to allow the panic reaction to lead you into making dangerous decisions.

I've even heard of people inducing that lightheaded dizzy feeling of a panic attack by hyperventilating on purpose -- as a form of practice! The idea being, next time the feeling comes over you, you can accept it's just a physical reaction and it will pass.

I haven't been inclined to try this myself, but I think I can see the utility in it, kind-of. Yoga is probably better... and looks nicer in photographs.