Panic Disorder
Understanding, Managing, and Treating Panic Disorder
Written by
Dr. Bessy Martirosyan
Reviewed by
Dr. Ellen Machikawa
Table of Contents
Overview
Panic Disorder Guide: Rebuild your sense of control after trauma
No one exactly knows when, how and why some people suffer from panic attacks. Panic disorder is known to run in families and there may be a genetic component to etiology of this disorder.
Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by sudden, recurring episodes of intense fear or panic. These panic attacks often come without warning and can cause physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, racing heartbeat, and shortness of breath.
Understanding panic disorder is crucial for both patients and their families. The condition affects millions of people and can significantly impact daily life if left untreated. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, individuals with panic disorder can learn to manage their symptoms effectively.
Symptoms
People suffering from panic disorder may develop some or all of the following symptoms:
Emotional & Behavioral Symptoms
- •Feeling of loss of control during a panic attack
- •Overwhelming anxiety of an impending panic attack
- •Avoid or fear places that trigger panic attacks
- •Feelings of derealization or depersonalization
Physical Symptoms
- •Racing or pounding heart
- •Difficulty in breathing
- •Shakes and sweats
- •Weakness or fatigue
- •Dizziness
- •Chills or hot flashes
- •Numbness or tingling sensation
- •Chest/stomach pain
- •Feeling of choking
People who are at risk
🏥 Statistical Overview
Americans suffer from panic disorder
More likely in women than men
to early adulthood onset
In America, 6 million people suffer from panic disorder. It is twice as likely to be found in women as men. Symptoms of panic disorder begin to show-up from late adolescence to early adulthood.
Every child that suffers panic attacks wouldn't necessarily develop panic disorder later on in life. A lot of people suffer just one panic attack and never have another one.
Diagnosis
🚨 Importance of Early Intervention
It's important that people who've suffered severe panic attacks repeatedly may become disabled due to their condition should seek immediate medical attention.
This will help them to prevent avoiding places or situations where they've experienced the panic attacks. For instance if a person experiences a panic attack in an elevator, being in an elevator may become a trigger and this person may develop a fear of elevators for the rest of their life.
This fear could influence a person's choice of getting a job or buying an apartment, and even stop him from asking for medical help or enjoy his life. Many other psychiatric symptoms like drug abuse, alcoholism or depression can accompany panic disorder. Due to their distinct characteristics, these psychiatric symptoms require separate medical attention.
Treatments
💬 Psychotherapy
A type of psychotherapy called cognitive behavior therapy is especially useful for treating panic disorder.
It teaches a person different ways of thinking, behaving, and reacting to situations that help him or her feel less anxious and fearful.
💊 Medication
Doctors also may prescribe medication to help treat panic disorder. The most commonly prescribed medications for panic disorder are:
- •Anti-anxiety medications - suppress panic attacks when they happen
- •Antidepressants - prevent panic attacks from occurring
⚠️ Important Medication Notes
Anti-anxiety medications:
Generally should not be taken for long periods of time and tend to suppress panic attacks when they happen.
Antidepressants:
Often safe and effective. Tend to prevent panic attacks from occurring and lower baseline anxiety. Anyone taking antidepressants should be monitored when they start treatment.
Panic Disorder FAQs
Frequently asked questions about panic disorder
What is panic disorder?
📘 Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by sudden, recurring episodes of intense fear or panic. These panic attacks often come without warning and can cause physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, racing heartbeat, and shortness of breath.
What kind of treatment is most effective for panic disorder?
🩺 Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is especially effective for treating panic disorder, often combined with medication when necessary. This approach teaches different ways of thinking and reacting to reduce anxiety and fear.
What can I do to manage my panic disorder symptoms?
🧘 Practice breathing exercises, avoid triggers when possible, maintain regular exercise, get adequate sleep, limit caffeine, and work with a mental health professional for comprehensive treatment.
Can panic disorder be cured?
✨ While panic disorder is a chronic condition, it is highly treatable. With proper treatment including therapy and/or medication, most people can learn to manage their symptoms effectively and live full, productive lives.
What does the 3-3-3 rule for panic disorder mean?
🔢 The 3-3-3 rule is a grounding technique: Name 3 things you can see, 3 sounds you can hear, and move 3 parts of your body. This helps redirect focus during a panic attack and can reduce symptoms.
References
Medical Review: This content has been medically reviewed by licensed healthcare professionals.
Sources: Information compiled from peer-reviewed medical literature and clinical guidelines for panic disorder treatment and management.