Panic Disorder

Although it can be common to experience a panic attack in your lifetime a panic disorder develops if you continue to experience unexpected and repeated panic attacks. This can develop out of the fear of having another attack and the fear that something bad will happen because of a panic attack (such as being embarrassed, losing control or dying). This extreme level of fear and worry often results in one having a panic attack.

Symptoms Panic Attack

• Pounding or racing heart
• Trembling or shaking
• Sweating
• Trouble breathing or feeling of being smothered
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Feeling of choking
• Nausea
• Upset stomach
• Hot flashes or chills
• Light-headedness or dizziness
• Numbness or tingling sensations
• Feeling detached or a sense of things being unreal
• Fear of going crazy or losing control
• Fear of dying

Panic attacks often develop quickly and reach a peak within 10 minutes. They can last for 5-10 minutes before beginning to subside. However, it may take a while for all the symptoms to settle down.

Panic attacks are commonly accompanied by other anxiety disorders such as phobias. When it is predictable and expected it is not a panic disorder. A panic disorder is when the attacks are unpredictable and unexpected and thus there is intense fear and worry about when they may occur.

Above is some helpful information to help you better understand this disorder. We do not recommend self diagnosing! If you would like to speak with a professional simply click here to Schedule an Appointment Now!