What is a panic disorder?
Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder associated with panic attacks — debilitating situations in which you experience extreme terror and loss of body function control. Panic attacks can happen anytime without warning, causing you to live in fear or avoid certain places and situations. Panic disorder can take over your life, causing you to stay at home. Treatment offers relief.
What are the symptoms of panic disorder?
Some common signs and symptoms of panic disorder include:
- Sweating
- Weakness
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Rapid heartbeats
- Shortness of breath
- Tingling or numbness
- Stomach or chest pains
- Trembling or shaking
- A sense of danger or doom
- Fear of death or loss of control
- Nausea, cramping, aches, or pains
Panic disorder occurs more often in women than in men. It may happen because of stress, genetic factors, or changes in brain chemistry.
What are the risk factors for panic disorder?
While a panic disorder can affect anyone, certain factors increase your risk of experiencing it:
- Major life stressors
- Family history of panic attacks
- Smoking
- Excessive caffeine intake
- History of childhood abuse
- Traumatic events
- Major life changes
Complications that may result from an untreated panic disorder include living in fear, phobias, physical problems, anxiety disorders, and depression, as well as avoiding social situations, problems at school or work, financial hardship, suicide, and alcohol or substance abuse.
How is panic disorder diagnosed?
To diagnose a panic disorder or another mental health problem, Dr. Zafar and her team ask about your symptoms and review your personal and family medical history. She completes a physical exam, orders blood tests to detect or rule out certain health problems as needed, and completes a comprehensive psychological evaluation.
How are panic disorders treated?
The Axis Psychiatry team offers numerous solutions to treat panic disorder and reduce attacks. Examples include:
Medications
Taking certain medications reduces symptoms associated with panic attacks, depression, and other mental health issues. Dr. Zafar personalizes each medication regimen to fit your needs and makes adjustments as needed.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, with Dr. Zafar, helps you better understand your panic disorder and learn how to cope with the condition. You’ll discover how to recognize and change your thinking patterns before they lead to panic.
Don’t live with debilitating panic disorder when help is within reach at Axis Psychiatry. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Zafar and her team by phone or online today.
