Panic Disorder

Have you ever felt a sense foreboding or doom for no reason at all?  If you have been inexplicably suffering from episodes of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, sweating, shortness of breath, chest pain and dizziness, you may be suffering from a panic disorder.  Panic disorder affects approximately six million American adults 18 years old and above.  This article aims to help you understand what panic disorder is and shows you some steps to take if you suspect that you are suffering from this condition. 

Panic disorder is characterized by sudden feelings of terror for no reason.  It may be accompanied by physical symptoms which may be any of the following: sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, dizziness, nausea, and stomach ache.  During a panic attack, the fear response to a situation is exaggerated.  This disorder usually begins in early adulthood and women are more likely to suffer from panic disorder than men. 

Researchers have not pinpointed a single cause for panic disorder.  However, some factors may predispose one to panic disorder.  One is heredity.  Panic disorder has been found to run in families.  Stressful situations can trigger a panic attack.  Some medical conditions such as mitral valve prolapse, hyperthyroidism and hypoglycemia have been found to either cause or aggravate panic disorder.  Smoking has been found to increase the risk of panic disorder.  Research also shows that a significant number of people with panic disorder use alcohol and psychoactive drugs.

If you suspect that you are having a panic disorder, see a doctor immediately.  Your doctor will get your complete medical history.  You will have to go through some tests to check if you have a physical illness that may be causing the symptoms of a panic disorder.  If no physical illness is found, you may be referred to a psychologist or a psychiatrist.

Some medications may be prescribed for your condition.  If you are experiencing adverse effects from the medications, do not stop taking it abruptly.  Doing so may lead to serious consequences.  Instead, consult your doctor.  Some medications must be tapered off, meaning that you must be gradually weaned from the medication.  If you are experiencing side effects, the dosage of the medication may need to be adjusted. 

There are some stress management techniques that you can learn and apply.  Meditation has been found to be beneficial to people with panic disorder and could even enhance therapy.  Sharing your problems and achievements in a support group may also help you.  Your family is a very important part of your recovery.  However, your family members need to be educated in order to help you have a successful therapy.

Panic disorder is a debilitating condition that could prevent you from enjoying life to the fullest.  Fortunately, with medications, therapy and support, panic disorder may be treated.  If you are suffering from panic disorder, keep in mind that this condition does not have to be debilitating.  You do not have to suffer any longer, so seek help immediately.