Panic Disorder: Symptoms and Diagnosis

Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by frequent, unexpected panic attacks. These attacks are intense and can be very frightening, causing a variety of physical and emotional symptoms, such as:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Heart palpitations
• Sweating
• Trembling
• Dizziness
• Feeling faint
• Nausea
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
• Feeling detached from yourself or your surroundings
• Fear of dying or losing control

Panic attacks can last for a few minutes or up to an hour. They can occur at any time, even during sleep.

Symptoms of Panic Disorder

To meet the diagnostic criteria for panic disorder, an individual must experience recurrent, unexpected panic attacks. These attacks are characterized by a sudden onset of intense fear or discomfort, reaching a peak within minutes. During an attack, individuals may experience various physical and psychological symptoms, including:

Physical Symptoms:

• Palpitations, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rate
• Sweating
• Trembling or shaking
• Shortness of breath or a feeling of choking
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Nausea, abdominal pain, or diarrhea
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or faintness
• Numbness or tingling sensations in the hands or feet
• Hot flashes or chills
• Feeling detached from oneself or reality (derealization) or feeling like one is outside of one's body (depersonalization)

Psychological Symptoms:

• Fear of losing control, going crazy, or dying
• Fear of physical sensations, such as heart palpitations or shortness of breath
• Fear of being trapped or unable to escape
• Feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope with current circumstances

Diagnosis of Panic Disorder

A diagnosis of panic disorder requires the presence of recurrent, unexpected panic attacks, accompanied by significant distress or impairment in daily functioning. To establish a diagnosis, a mental health professional will typically conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including:

• A detailed review of the individual's symptoms, including the frequency, severity, and duration of panic attacks, as well as any associated psychological or physical symptoms.
• An exploration of the individual's medical history to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be causing similar symptoms.
• An assessment of the individual's psychological history, including any past or current mental health conditions, stressors, or traumatic experiences.

Treatment for Panic Disorder

Effective treatment options for panic disorder include a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or benzodiazepines, can be helpful in reducing the frequency and severity of panic attacks. Psychotherapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help individuals understand the nature of their panic attacks, develop coping strategies, and challenge negative thoughts and beliefs that contribute to their anxiety.

It is important to seek professional help if you think you may have panic disorder. With proper treatment, you can manage your symptoms and live a full and productive life.