Panic Disorders

Anxiety disorders cause intense feelings of fear and overwhelm. They make your heart race, constrict your breathing, and cause your stomach to churn.  External factors, like large crowds and loud noises, often trigger anxiety symptoms. 

Panic disorder

Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder that causes multiple, unexpected anxiety attacks. These anxiety attacks occur without warning and aren’t caused by another physical or mental health condition.

Not everyone who has panic attacks develops panic disorder. 

What are the symptoms of panic disorders?

Panic disorder symptoms include:

• Chest pain
• Racing heart
• Trembling or shaking
• Chills 
• Nausea
• Sweating
• Tingling or numbness in the hands and fingers

You might also experience intense feelings, like sudden terror, a smothering sensation, or like you’re going to die.

How is panic disorder diagnosed?

Your Cactus Serenity Integrated Health Services provider reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms and lifestyle. They also have you complete an anxiety questionnaire. 

Afterward, they compare your responses with the criteria for panic disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). If you’ve had repeated, unexpected panic attacks for a month or longer and you constantly worry about having panic attacks or change your behavior to avoid situations that might trigger panic attacks, you have a panic disorder.

How is panic disorder treated?

The Cactus Serenity Integrated Health Services team treats panic disorder with a conservative and integrative approach. They could suggest:

• Counseling (talk therapy) to change unhealthy emotions, behaviors, and thoughts
• Exposure therapy so you become more comfortable in anxiety-producing situations
• Antidepressants to make panic attacks less severe
• Anti-anxiety medications to prevent panic attacks

Most people with anxiety disorders benefit from a combination of treatments. Your provider monitors your symptoms at regular checkups, adjusting your care plan as needed.

Is there any way to prevent panic attacks?

Panic attacks can’t be prevented, but there are several things you can do to reduce your risk. The Cactus Serenity Integrated Health Services team recommends avoiding stimulants like caffeine and nicotine, exercising regularly to help manage stress, and eating a balanced diet. 

Stress management activities, like yoga, deep breathing, and meditation, can also be helpful. These activities teach you how to center your thoughts and ground yourself.

Call Cactus Serenity Integrated Health Services to schedule panic disorder treatment or book an appointment online today.