Panic Disorder Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by frequent episodes of panic or dread. Sometimes, everyone feels sensations of anxiety and panic. It's a natural reaction to stressful or potentially harmful conditions. Panic disorder symptoms can be wide-ranging and may include physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, shaking, and difficulty breathing, as well as psychological symptoms such as fear, anxiety, and feelings of impending doom. It is important to seek help if you are experiencing symptoms of panic disorder. With proper treatment, including therapy and medication, people with panic disorder can learn to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. In this blog, we will explore the causes & symptoms of panic disorder in more detail and provide information on the available treatment options.

What is panic disorder?

Panic disorder occurs when you've experienced at least 2 panic attacks (you feel afraid and overwhelmed even though you're not in danger) and continually worry about having another one and changing your routine to avoid another one. It is an anxiety disorder. One in every three persons will experience one in their lives. However, the majority of individuals do not suffer from panic disorders. Only approximately 3% of adults have it, affecting women more than males.

What are the panic disorder symptoms?

Panic episodes cause great terror to occur unexpectedly and without notice. An attack normally lasts 5 to 20 minutes. In severe cases, symptoms may continue for more than an hour. Everyone's experience is unique, and symptoms frequently change. They can happen while driving, at the mall, even in sleep, or in a professional meeting. You may get panic episodes on occasion or regularly. Some of the symptoms are common in panic attacks:

1. A feeling of an impending catastrophe or danger
2. Fear of losing control or dying
3. Heart rate is racing and thumping
4. Sweating
5. Nausea
6. Cramps in the abdomen
7. Chest ache
8. Headache
9. Shaking or trembling
10. Throat constriction
11. Chills
12. Hot flashes
13. The sensation of being dizzy, lightheaded, or faint
14. Feelings of numbness or tingling
15. Unreality or a sense of remoteness

An attack typically lasts 5 to 10 minutes, although it can last for hours. It may appear that you are experiencing a stroke or a heart attack. As a result, persons experiencing panic attacks frequently end up in an emergency room for diagnosis. Many persons with panic disorder associate an attack with what they were doing at the time. They may believe the attack was started in a restaurant, elevator, or classroom. They will then avoid certain locations. It can result in agoraphobia or the fear of leaving the house or going out in public. Consult your doctor immediately if you're suffering and experiencing panic disorder symptoms. They aren't hazardous, but they can worsen if left untreated. However, remember that panic attack symptoms resemble those of more serious illnesses. Call your doctor if you are unsure whether you are experiencing a panic attack.

What factors contribute to panic disorder?

The reasons for panic disorder are unknown, and the study is continuing. Let's look at some of the most common causes of panic disorder.

Genetics -

According to a 2020 study, the panic disorder could be linked to a genetic component. Researchers found that 40 genes were linked to panic disorder, most of which were tied to our body's neurotransmission (which regulates communications between our nerve cells). They contended that testing for biomarkers could be useful in detecting panic disorder. According to a 2018 study, study on panic disorder and genetics is quite conflicting, and larger investigations are required before any conclusions can be reached. According to the researchers, life pressure, trauma, and anxiety sensitivity are all essential societal and psychological elements contributing to the disease. Changes in the "COMT" gene were shown to be the most strongly linked to panic disorder in the studies. This gene encodes an essential enzyme (protein) that influences cognitive ability and behavioral regulation.

Lifestyle changes -

Panic disorder is linked to major lifestyle changes and stressful events like fighting with family members. Even when life transitions are exciting and pleasant, they can introduce new obstacles and anxieties into one's everyday life. Examples of such transformations and events include:

1. Leaving home
2. The loss of a beloved one is heartbreaking
3. Getting married Expecting your first child
4. Beginning a new job

Taking good care of your physical and mental well-being is critical during life transitions. You also have the right to be supported while dealing with difficulties or trauma. Consider seeking emotional support from reliable loved ones when you're feeling overwhelmed, set boundaries, and communicate. A psychologist or mental healthcare professional can support you by listening to you, providing information, and assisting you in developing coping strategies.

Anxiety -

Anxiety and having an anxiety disorder are also linked to panic attacks and panic disorder. Panic attacks are classified as anxiety disorders under the DSM-5. Panic and anxiety disorders can both be chronic disorders. Anxiety typically emerges as worry, nervousness, or feeling anxious. Social anxiety, for example, might occur when you are concerned about performing in social events or environments with many people. You may feel extremely self-conscious and experience physical signs such as sweating or shaking. Anxiety is natural in humans. However, being apprehensive always is cause for concern and may suggest a generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

What are the Consequences of Panic disorder?

Panic disorder may majorly affect your everyday life and general well-being if left untreated. Chronic panic disorder has the following negative health effects:

1. Agoraphobia (fear of going places and seeing people)
2. To cope, you may develop a substance use disorder
3. Suicidal ideation
4. Depression

Panic disorders and panic attacks can also impact children's and adolescents' social development. Fear of experiencing a panic attack might make attending school, leaving the house, or maintaining relationships challenging.

What Is the Treatment for Panic Disorder?

After checking your condition the doctor will consult whether you need a psychotherapist. They might suggest: Cognitive behavioral therapy is a sort of talk therapy that teaches you how to overcome problematic ideas and habits that trigger panic episodes. Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), are used to treat depression (SNRIs). Antidepressants are commonly used to treat panic disorder symptoms, a condition characterized by frequent panic attacks. Benzodiazepines are sedatives that influence the brain's central nervous system. (These should not be used for long periods since they can become addictive.) Medications for anxiety (These, like benzodiazepines, operate best in the short term) Caffeine consumption should be reduced Exercise regularly Limiting alcohol consumption Exercising your deep breathing

What to do if you have a panic attack?

When you feel a panic attack is coming on, do the following:

1. Do not resist it
2. Stay where you are if you can
3. Slowly and deeply inhale
4. Remember that the attack will pass
5. Concentrate on images that are good, calm, and relaxing
6. Don't have a negative thought life-threatening

Conclusion -

Panic disorder is commonly a chronic ailment that is difficult to treat. You may have the panic disorder if you've had several panic attacks and experience a chronic fear of them recurring. Panic disorder symptoms include indications such as a rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, and difficulty breathing. People with panic disorder may also experience psychological symptoms such as intense fear, a feeling of losing control, and a fear of dying. Even though it isn't possible to completely cure a panic disorder, treatment can assist. Psychotherapy, including CBT, aiming to reduce life stressors, and medication are all choices. Panic disorder usually appears in the early twenties, and studies suggest it affects women more than males. A history of anxiety can raise your chances of panic episodes and panic disorder. If you experience any issues, kindly contact the Best Psychiatry Specialist in India.