Everything You Need to Know About Panic Disorder

Panic disorder is a common yet misunderstood mental health condition that can significantly impact your life. If you’re wondering what panic disorder is, how it is diagnosed, and what treatments are available, this article is for you. Here, we will provide a comprehensive overview of panic disorder and discuss the signs, symptoms, and treatment options that may help you manage your condition.

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What is Panic Disorder?

Panic disorder is a mental health disorder that causes recurrent, unexpected panic attacks and fear of future attacks. Panic attacks are sudden periods of intense fear or discomfort accompanied by physical symptoms such as a racing heart, shortness of breath, sweating, shaking, and feeling overwhelmed. These attacks can last from a few minutes to several hours and be disabling.

Anticipatory

People with panic disorder also experience anticipatory anxiety – the fear of experiencing another attack even when they’re not having one. This can lead to avoidance behaviors that interfere with daily activities and relationships. Panic disorder can cause significant distress and disruption to a person’s life. It affects about 2.7% of adults in the United States and is twice as common in women as in men.

What are the Symptoms of Panic Disorder?

Panic disorder is characterized by sudden, unexpected episodes of intense fear or terror and physical symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Common symptoms of panic disorder include palpitations, chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, dizziness, trembling or shaking, chills or hot flushes, feeling of choking, and fear of losing control or going crazy. People with panic disorder may also experience nausea, abdominal cramps, sweating, and headaches.

The episodes of fear and panic usually come on quickly and can reach their peak within minutes. During an attack, people may feel a sense of impending doom or danger and feelings of detachment from reality. In addition, they may experience changes in their thinking and behavior, such as racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, and irrational behaviors like avoiding situations that may trigger the attacks. A panic attack’s physical and psychological symptoms can be overwhelming and last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours.

What Causes Panic Disorder?

Panic disorder is a complex mental health condition, and there is no single cause. Research suggests that certain factors may increase the risk of developing panic disorder, such as genetics, family history, and stressful life events.

Genetics

Panic disorder can be hereditary, with research suggesting that up to one-third of people with the condition have a close relative who also has it.

Family history

Panic disorder can run in families, and having a family member with the condition may increase the risk of developing it.

Stressful life events

Stressful life events, such as the death of a loved one, divorce, job loss, or other significant life changes, can trigger panic disorder episodes.

Other factors: Other potential risk factors for panic disorder include chronic stress, substance use, or trauma. It is also believed that imbalances in brain chemicals, such as serotonin, dopamine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), may contribute to panic disorder.

How is Panic Disorder Diagnosed?

Panic disorder is diagnosed when a person experiences recurrent and unexpected panic attacks. To be diagnosed with panic disorder, the individual must experience at least four of the following symptoms during the attack: rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling or shaking, shortness of breath, feelings of choking, chest pain or discomfort, nausea or abdominal distress, feeling dizzy or lightheaded, feeling detached from oneself, fear of losing control or “going crazy,” fear of dying, numbness.

To make a diagnosis, a doctor or mental health professional will take a medical history, do a physical exam, and may order laboratory tests to rule out other causes of the symptoms. The professional will also ask questions about the individual’s thoughts and feelings during an attack. People must be open and honest when discussing their symptoms with the doctor.

It is also important to remember that panic disorder can often occur along with other conditions, such as depression or other anxiety disorders. If this is the case, it may be challenging to determine if the symptoms are due to panic disorder or another condition. In addition, people who have a family history of panic disorder may be more likely to develop the condition.

The doctor may also refer the individual to a mental health specialist for further evaluation. A mental health specialist may use psychological tests or specialized interviews to help diagnose panic disorder. The professional may also use other assessments to evaluate related conditions, such as depression or substance abuse. Once a diagnosis is made, the treatment plan can be tailored to address the panic disorder and any associated conditions.

What is the Prognosis for People with Panic Disorder?

The prognosis for people with panic disorder is generally good. Most people can manage their symptoms and lead healthy, productive lives with proper diagnosis, treatment, and support. Most people who receive treatment for panic disorder find that their symptoms improve significantly within the first few months of treatment.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective form of treatment for panic disorder and can help reduce the number and severity of panic attacks. Medications such as antidepressants and benzodiazepines are also commonly used to reduce anxiety and help control panic attacks. With proper treatment, many people with panic disorder experience a decrease in both the intensity and frequency of their panic attacks over time. With ongoing therapy and support, individuals with panic disorder may be able to live without fear and anxiety.