What Are the Symptoms and Treatment of Panic Disorder?

Let me begin by saying as a person who has been living with panic disorder for over twenty five years, there is help available and you can lead a normal life.

When I had my first panic attack I was sure I was having a heart attack and was going to die. I went to the emergency room at my local hospital and they ran tests saying my heart was fine, which was a relief considering I was only twenty four. Unfortunately they also sent me home without a diagnoses. Through the next couple of years and many more trips to the E.R. as well as to my family physician, they could find nothing wrong with me. I seriously thought I was losing my mind or I had a rare disease the doctor's couldn't find.

Then after moving to a new town and acquiring a new physician, it finally happened I was given a diagnoses! My new physician Dr. Comfort (and what a comfort he was) explained that I was suffering from panic disorder. He prescribed some medication and set me up with a counselor which led to my road to recovery. That was many years ago and panic disorder has since become a familiar disorder that is now much easier to diagnose.

What is panic disorder? Researchers believe that panic disorder arises when a person has and continues to have onsets of panic attacks. Many people are capable of having a panic attack or even a few throughout their lives but when it happens over and over again it is diagnosed as panic disorder.

What causes panic disorder? Although not entirely understood, researchers believe that panic disorder may be due to chemical imbalances in the brain. Panic disorder has been known to run in families, so it is likely there may be a genetic connection. Excessive stress and trauma may also be a contributing factor in the development of panic disorder

What is a panic attack? It is a feeling of overwhelming anxiety and fear. Which can also be accompanied by physical symptoms.

What are the symptoms of a panic attack?

chest pain or discomfort

racing heart

trouble breathing

feeling of choking

dizziness, or feeling faint

fear of dying

fear of losing control

sweats or chills

numbness or tingling

trembling or shaking

Is there a treatment for panic disorder? Absolutely! Treatment may consist of cognitive behavioral therapy, medication or both.

These treatments have been helpful in reducing the number and frequency of panic attacks and to improve your quality of life.

Living with panic disorder is like living with any illness, sometimes you need to find new and different ways to cope. I do take medications prescribed by my Doctor and although it has significantly reduced the frequency of my panic attacks, on the occasions when I do have one I am now better prepared to deal with it.

Techniques I use that are helpful: First and foremost try to remain calm. I know this is hard to do, but the more excited you get the more out of control you are. The most important thing to remember is you are not going to die. I talk to my self, reminding my self (how many times have you gone through this and your still a live). Pay attention to your body. From the top of your head to the tip of your toes. Relax those shoulders, unclench those fists, uncurl those toes, relax your jaws and breathe. Take long deep breaths filling up your lungs, this helps you to relax as well as prevent hyperventilation caused by fast short breaths which only tend to make things worse. Do not concentrate on your heart rate, it will return to normal. Find ways to distract yourself. Try watching T.V. or just get up and walk around the house, talk to someone or have them softly rub your back. Think about happier times, picture yourself on a warm tropical vacation, relaxing in the sun and breathing in the fresh ocean air. I use all of these techniques and many more. They do help get you through the hard times.

If you have or think you may have panic disorder be sure to consult your doctor, follow his/her treatment recommendations and find new ways to better your quality of life.