Panic Disorder

About Panic Disorder

Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder in which a person experiences recurrent, unexpected panic attacks, followed by persistent worry about further attacks or changes in behavior to avoid them. A panic attack is an abrupt surge of intense fear or discomfort that peaks within minutes, accompanied by symptoms such as palpitations, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, choking sensations, chest pain, nausea, dizziness, chills or heat sensations, tingling, feelings of unreality or detachment, and fear of losing control or dying. Many people first seek help in emergency departments believing they are having a heart attack. It is diagnosed more often in women and commonly begins in late adolescence or early adulthood. The cognitive behavioral model describes panic as a cycle in which normal bodily sensations are interpreted as catastrophic, triggering more adrenaline and stronger symptoms. Panic attacks can occur in many conditions, and panic disorder may co occur with agoraphobia. Cognitive behavioral therapy, including interoceptive exposure in which feared bodily sensations are deliberately brought on in a controlled way, has strong evidence. SSRIs and SNRIs are among the medications used. Benzodiazepines provide rapid relief, but long term use can maintain avoidance and carries a risk of dependence. Most people improve substantially with treatment.