What is Panic Disorder?
People with a panic disorder suffer sudden, intense overwhelming terror for no apparent reason. Their fear is accompanied by other symptoms, including sweating, heart palpitations, hot or cold flashes, choking or smothering feelings, and senses of unreality.
New research shows that there may be a brain malfunction and decrease in the body’s ability to respond to stress. Medication and stress management can greatly reduce the incidence and intensity of the attacks.
Panic disorders may be initially diagnosed as physical ailments and not treated appropriately. Untreated panic disorders can cause such anxiety in the life of the individual that they may not be able to work or perform daily activities. Panic can cause the person to be home bound and socially isolate. Panic disorders are treatable with a combination of medication, psychotherapy and behavior modification.
Symptoms of panic attacks may include:
- Palpitations, pounding heart, or fast heart rate.
- Sweating, trembling and shaking.
- Shortness of breath or feelings of smothering.
- Feelings of choking.
- Chest pain or stabbing pain.
- Nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea.
- Feeling dizzy or light headed.
- Fear of loosing control, going crazy, or dying.
- Numbness or tingling, chills, or hot flashes.
- Fear of dying.
