Panic Disorder

Panic disorder is a sudden surge of intense fear with accompanying physical and psychological symptoms. While the episodes can be terrifying, effective panic attack treatments are available. With proper intervention, individuals can learn to manage their symptoms and significantly improve their quality of life.

Overview

Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by recurring unexpected panic attacks. A panic attack is a sudden rush of intense physical and psychological distress. During an attack, people experience a range of symptoms such as racing heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness, trembling, and an overwhelming sense of fear or impending doom. Panic attacks typically reach their peak within 10 minutes but can last longer. Panic disorder often begins in late adolescence or early adulthood.

Causes

Several factors may contribute to their development. Panic attack treatment often addresses these underlying elements.

• Family History: Having relatives with panic disorder or anxiety conditions can elevate your likelihood of experiencing panic attacks.
• Brain Chemistry Irregularities: Disruptions in brain chemistry or irregular activity in specific neural pathways and chemical messenger systems may contribute to panic episodes.
• Stressful Life Events: Major life stressors, such as significant changes, traumatic events, or ongoing emotional strain, can trigger panic attacks.
• Temperament: Individuals with a temperament prone to negative emotions may be more susceptible to panic disorder.
• Fight-or-Flight Response: Panic attacks often involve an overactive “fight-or-flight” response, even when no real danger is present.
• Substance Use: Alcohol or drug dependence can increase the likelihood of experiencing panic attacks.

Symptoms

The main symptom of panic disorder is the panic attack itself. Physical symptoms during an attack may include:

• Pounding/racing heart
• Sweating
• Trembling/shaking
• Shortness of breath/choking sensations
• Chest pain
• Nausea/abdominal distress
• Dizziness/lightheadedness
• Chills or hot flashes
• Numbness/tingling
• Fear of losing control or dying
• Psychological symptoms include extreme fear, feelings of unreality, and inability to think clearly.

When to See a Doctor

You should see a doctor if you are experiencing panic attacks and persistent worries about having another attack. Untreated, panic disorder can severely disrupt your life. Seek medical evaluation if:

• Panic attacks are recurring
• Worry about panic attacks impacts daily functioning
• Physical symptoms like chest pain require assessment

When to Get Emergency Help

Get emergency medical care if you are experiencing panic attack symptoms that suggest a life-threatening condition, including:

• Chest pains not relieved by rest
• Shortness of breath not associated with panic
• Irregular heartbeat
• Symptoms that could indicate a heart attack or other medical emergency

Diagnosis

Diagnosing panic disorder involves a medical evaluation, personal history, and describing the frequency and nature of panic attack symptoms. The doctor may order tests to rule out other potential causes. The core criteria are experiencing recurring, unexpected panic attacks and persistent anxiety about future attacks or their consequences.

• Medical Evaluation

A comprehensive medical evaluation is the first step in diagnosing panic disorder and determining the most appropriate panic attack treatment. This typically involves a physical exam to rule out any underlying health issues that might mimic panic attack symptoms, such as heart conditions or thyroid disorders. Your doctor may also order blood tests or an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) to assess your physical health and ensure the symptoms aren’t due to another medical problem.

• Personal History

Understanding your personal history is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and effective panic attack treatment. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, including when they first started, how often they occur, and how long they last. They’ll also inquire about any significant life stressors, traumatic events, or major changes that may have preceded your first panic attack. Discussing your medical information, including other physical or mental health conditions, and any medications or supplements you’re taking, helps create a complete picture.

• Psychological Assessment

A psychological assessment is a key component in diagnosing panic disorder and tailoring panic attack treatment. During this assessment, a mental health professional will discuss your symptoms, fears, concerns, and any situations you might be avoiding due to panic. You may also be asked to complete a self-assessment questionnaire. This evaluation helps determine if your panic attacks are consistent with panic disorder criteria, rather than being caused by substance use or another mental health condition. Even if you don’t meet the full criteria for panic disorder, a psychological assessment can still guide beneficial panic attack treatment.

Treatment

The primary panic attack treatments are mental therapy and medications. 

• Psychotherapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) teaches coping skills to manage anxiety and panic through relaxation, exposure therapy, and reframing negative thought patterns.

• Medications

Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can help reduce panic attack frequency and severity.

Other recommendations may include lifestyle practices like exercise, stress management, avoiding stimulants, and support groups. With proper treatment, panic disorder is highly manageable.

Panic Attacks Treatment at Bangkok Mental Health Hospital

At Bangkok Mental Health Hospital, we understand the debilitating impact of panic attacks and are dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate panic attack treatment. Our experienced team of mental health professionals offers personalized care plans that often combine effective psychotherapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with appropriate medication management when necessary. Our aim is to help you regain your well-being and improve your quality of life through expert panic attack treatment.

Contact Bangkok Mental Health Hospital today to request an appointment. 

• Phone: 02-589-1889
• Line: @bmhh
• Mail: [email protected]
• Location: Tiwanon – Pathum Thani road, Tha Sai, Mueang Nonthaburi Nonthaburi 11000

Article By
Assistant Professor Special Prakarn Thomyangkoon, M.D.
Adult Psychiatry
Bangkok Mental Health Hospital (BMHH)