PANIC DISORDER

Panic disorder is where a person experiences feelings of anxiety and panic at certain times with no apparent reason. What causes this isn’t fully understood, however it may be linked to a combination of physical and psychological factors, such as a history of heart disease, anemia or poorly-controlled diabetes to name a few.

Symptoms tend to occur suddenly, without warning and are often without any particular reason. Besides overwhelming feelings of anxiety, a panic attack can also manifest in a number of other symptoms, including:

  • Palpitations
  • Sweating
  • Hot flushes
  • Chills
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest and/or Abdominal pain
  • Nausea
  • Numbness
  • Dizziness

Most panic attacks may last for five to 20 minutes, or longer. These attacks may also recur at a number of times in a week or month.

Diagnosis

Please refer to your general physician for referral to a specialized consultant and proper diagnosis.

 

Recommended Medications

  • Psychological therapy
    • Cognitive behavioral therapy
    • Support Groups
  • Medical Treatment
    • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
    • Tricyclic antidepressants
    • Anti-epileptics (ie. Clonazepam, Pregabalin)

No single treatment works for every patient and it may need several attempts before finding one management plan best for each case. Recommended treatment will depend on the general state of health, the severity of the condition and the patient’s personal preferences.

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