Panic Disorder
What is Panic Disorder?
Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder that involves multiple unexpected panic attacks. A main feature of panic disorder is that the attacks usually happen without warning and aren’t due to another mental health or physical condition. There’s often not a specific trigger for them.
Not everyone who experiences a panic attack develops panic disorder.
Panic attacks are the main feature of panic disorder. But they can happen alongside other conditions, such as:
Anxiety disorders, Mood disorders, Phobias, Psychotic disorders, Substance use disorders, Trauma- and stressor-related disorders, Certain medical conditions.
While panic attacks by themselves aren’t dangerous or harmful to your health, frequent attacks can lead to a decrease in your quality of life and other issues.
Physical symptoms of a panic attack include:
Chest pain.
Racing heart.
Difficulty breathing, such as hyperventilation.
Trembling or shaking.
Chills.
Nausea.
Sweating.
Tingling or numbness in your fingers or toes.
You may feel:
- Intense terror.
- A choking or smothering sensation.
- Fear of losing control.
- Like you’re going to die.
- Derealization (feelings of unreality) or depersonalization (feeling detached from yourself).
Panic attacks are very unpleasant and can be frightening. If you’ve had symptoms of a panic attack, it’s important to see a healthcare provider. They can give you an official diagnosis and ensure there’s no underlying physical cause.
People with panic disorders can be treated with psychological therapies and medication. An individual’s treatment will depend on their symptoms.
You can be free from the limitations imposed by your mental health conditions and lead the life you deserve with the assistance of EastGate Behavioral Health professionals, who have the utmost dedication to your situation.
