Panic Attack Disorder: What it is and What You can do About It
Panic attack disorder is a form of anxiety that is characterized by recurring bouts of extreme panic that manifest with numerous physical symptoms. The panic attacks vary in the degree of frequency and can last anywhere from five to thirty minutes. These attacks can occur anywhere and anytime, and some people even find that they are waking up at night to the familiar symptoms. While the symptoms can feel intense enough to cause you extreme physical duress, panic attacks are not generally serious in and of themselves. However, if the condition is left untreated, a panic attack disorder can lead to a variety of phobias that can get in the way of everyday life. Therefore, it is a good idea to see your doctor if you suspect that you are suffering with a panic attack disorder to find out what treatment options are available to you.
Symptoms of a Panic Attack
The symptoms of a panic attack can vary from person to person, but there is a general list of symptoms that can help you to recognize this condition. Often the attacks begin with a flushing or a pounding heart, and may also include shortness of breath, sweating, shaking, nausea, dizziness, chest pressure or pain and a feeling like you are choking. Some people describe an attack as feeling as though they are going to die, although their bodies are never really in as dire a condition as it feels. These symptoms can go on for many minutes and can leave the person feeling drained and exhausted afterward. Sometimes a panic attack disorder can be accompanied by other mental health issues like depression, which can make the condition more challenging to treat. However, there are numerous treatment options available for a panic attack disorder.
Treatment Options
Medication is often the first course of treatment for a panic attack disorder, and there are a wide variety of medicines that your doctor may prescribe. For a short term remedy that can quickly and effectively get symptoms under control, medications like Valium and Xanax may be used. Over the long term, panic attack disorder is usually most effectively treated with a combination of antidepressants and a form of counseling known as cognitive behavior therapy. While these treatments will keep symptoms under control, they will not cure a panic attack disorder. This means that treatment will need to be continued indefinitely in order for the patient to see effective and ongoing relief from his symptoms.
A panic attack disorder can be a challenging condition to live with, but the good news is that there are options in effective treatment. If you think that you are suffering from a panic attack disorder, your doctor can recommend the best treatment choices for you.
