What are Panic attacks and Panic Disorder?
Panic attacks are intense episodes of fear that reach a peak within a minute. However, Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks.
These attacks can occur without an apparent trigger and often lead to distress and worry.
What are panic disorder symptoms?
Symptoms include:
- Racing heartbeat
- Sense of danger or impending doom
- Sweating
- Trembling or shaking
- Shortness of breath
- Stomach discomfort, nausea, vomiting
- Headache
- Chest pain
- Feeling dizzy or faint
- Numbness or tingling
- Fear of losing control or going crazy
- A fear of dying
Usually panic attack passes in 5-10 minutes, but it can also extend to hours. It can feel like having a heart attack. So most often individuals with panic attacks often present to the emergency care for evaluation.
What causes panic attack?
Genetics
Family history of panic disorder or anxiety disorder.
Stressful life events
Traumatic life experience or significant stressors.
Brain Chemistry
Imbalance in neurotransmitters, particularly serotonin and nor epinephrine, may contribute to the development of panic disorder.
Biological factors
Abnormalities in the brain’s amygdale, which plays a role in the body’s response to fear, may be involved.
What are the treatments for panic disorder?
Medication:
Anti-anxiety, anti-depressant (Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed medication to help manage symptoms).
Psychotherapy:
Cognitive behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Lifestyle changes:
Regular exercise, healthy diet , mindfulness meditation
Core Values
Dealing with panic attacks and Panic Disorder requires a multifaceted approach: Learn About Panic Attacks: Understanding symptoms and triggers empowers control and reduces fear. Practice Relaxation: Regularly employ deep breathing, mindfulness, or visualization to calm mind and body. Challenge Negative Thoughts: Identify and reframe catastrophic thoughts through CBT techniques. Stay Present: Focus on the moment during attacks, using grounding techniques to reduce intensity. Practice Gradual Exposure: Systematically confront triggers to desensitize and decrease panic frequency. Maintain Healthy Habits: Prioritize exercise, nutrition, sleep, and avoid substances to reduce overall anxiety. Seek Professional Help: Consult specialists for evaluation, evidence-based therapy, and medication if needed. Build Support Network: Surround yourself with understanding individuals for encouragement and assistance. Be Patient: Recovery takes time; persist with strategies and treatment, celebrating progress along the way. Remember, you're not alone in managing panic attacks and Panic Disorder. With support and dedication, you can lead a fulfilling life.
Medical Check Ups
Recognised as a world renowned institution, you can consult any of our doctors by visiting our clinic..
Medical Treatment
Free or low cost coverage adults with limited income recognised as a world renowned institution..
Emergency Help 24/7
Contact our reception staff with any medical enquiry any time for low cost coverage adults.
Research Professionals
All medical aspects practice for family, our reception staff with any medical enquiry any time...
Health Tips & Info
Managing panic attacks and Panic Disorder involves prioritizing overall health and implementing strategies to reduce anxiety and improve well-being. Here are some health tips tailored specifically for individuals dealing with panic attacks and Panic Disorder:
A panic attack is a sudden onset of intense fear or discomfort that reaches its peak within minutes. It is often accompanied by physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, and a feeling of losing control or impending doom.
Panic Disorder is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by recurring and unexpected panic attacks. Individuals with Panic Disorder often experience persistent worry about having future panic attacks or the consequences of panic attacks, leading to significant distress and impairment in daily functioning.
Symptoms of a panic attack can vary but may include rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain or discomfort, nausea, dizziness, chills or hot flashes, and a sense of unreality or detachment.
The exact cause of panic attacks is not fully understood, but they are believed to result from a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. Stressful life events, changes in brain chemistry, and a family history of anxiety disorders may contribute to the development of panic attacks.
Panic attacks typically reach their peak within a few minutes and last for about 10 to 20 minutes on average. However, some panic attacks may be shorter or longer in duration.
Yes, panic attacks can occur without an apparent trigger. These are often referred to as "unexpected" or "spontaneous" panic attacks. However, panic attacks can also be triggered by specific situations, such as being in a crowded place or experiencing a stressful event.
Yes, Panic Disorder is treatable. Treatment often involves a combination of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and medication, such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications. Many individuals with Panic Disorder can achieve significant relief from their symptoms with appropriate treatment.
Panic Disorder can significantly interfere with daily life, relationships, work, and social activities. The fear of experiencing panic attacks can lead to avoidance behaviors and may impact a person's ability to engage in normal activities.
Support for Panic Disorder is available from mental health professionals, support groups, online forums, and advocacy organizations such as the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) or the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
While it may not be possible to prevent Panic Disorder entirely, early intervention and treatment can help manage symptoms and reduce the impact of the disorder on daily life. Learning coping skills, stress management techniques, and seeking support can also be helpful in preventing the onset of panic attacks.
Meet Our Doctors
Absolutely, here's an introduction to Kenison Shrestha, a professional doctor in our team
Dr. Kenison
Specialist