PANIC DISORDERS

                                               Panic Disorder Q& A

                                              What is Panic Disorder?

 Panic disorder is diagnosed in people who experience spontaneous seemingly out-of-the-blue panic attacks and are very preoccupied with the fear of a recurring attack.  

The core symptom of panic disorder is recurrent panic attacks, an overwhelming combination of physical and psychological distress. 

During an attack, several of these symptoms occur in combination:

•  Palpitations pounding heart or rapid heart rate
•  Sweating
• Trembling or shaking
•  Feeling of shortness of breath or smothering sensations 
• Chest pain
• Feeling dizzy, 
• Light-headed or faint 
• Feeling of choking
• Numbness or tingling 
• Chills or hot flashes
•  Nausea or abdominal pains
• Feeling detached
•  Fear of losing control
•  Fear of dying.

                                                       What causes panic disorder?

According to research panic disorder often starts in the teens or early adulthood but may also begin in childhood. Women are twice as likely as men to have it. There may be a genetic link. It tends to run in families.

                                                        How is panic disorder treated?

Our providers have extensive experience designing personalized care plans to address panic disorder. Your plan may include use of anti-anxiety and antidepressant medications and counseling, such as use of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Treatment will help you learn to recognize that the symptoms are not life-threatening. You will also learn coping skills and ways to relax to decrease the intensity and length of the panic attack.

Do not suffer alone, book your appointment today or schedule online.