Panic Disorder Defined

A panic disorder is a horrifying, potentially debilitating, experience signified by symptoms such as pounding heart and palpitations, shortness of breath, faintness, hot or cold flashes, trembling, tingling, weakness and nausea, or feeling as though the external world has somehow changed and you are no longer a part of it. A panic disorder may manifest itself into a panic attack, where you may fear you are dying, going crazy, or are about to lose control. Some panic attacks come on quickly and involve many intense feelings, while other attacks may be less intense and involve fewer feelings. The signs of panic attacks can change or stay the same from one attack to another.

All human beings have a built-in “alarm system” that goes off when they feel threatened. This alarm ignites physical and emotional changes that prepare us to either flee or fight the danger that triggered the alarm. In some people, this alarm may go off unexpectedly, creating a very strong sense of threat when no danger is present. This “false alarm” is the panic attack.

What does a panic attack feel like?

Is a panic attack the same thing as a heart attack?

No. The symptoms of panic attacks can seem like those of other serious medical events, like heart attacks and strokes. Unfortunately, these crossover symptoms can make panic attacks harder to recognize. In addition, panic-like symptoms can be produced by other medical conditions. If you or your doctor think you may have panic disorder, you will need to be examined carefully to rule out other mental or physical problems.

What is agoraphobia?

Panic attacks can be so frightening that some people change their behavior because their fear of another attack is so great. They may avoid certain activities that they think might trigger an attack. They may avoid places where escape is difficult, or embarrassing, should an attack occur. Some people may be unable to perform routine activities without the company of a “safe” person. This pattern of fear and avoidance is called agoraphobia. The word “agora” means a market or meeting place, and “phobia” means fear. Although agoraphobia is often understood as a fear of open places, it also involves fear and avoidance of many activities and situations.

Why do I keep experiencing panic attacks?

Once a panic disorder develops, it usually creates a daily cycle of fear. The cycle begins with advance anxiety about where, when, and how the next panic attack may occur. People with panic disorder often become aware of, and worried about, physical changes that might happen. This build-up of fear and anxiety often leads to greater fear and, therefore, a higher likelihood of having an actual attack. For some people, this is reason enough to avoid certain situations completely. Unfortunately, as the condition worsens, they spend more and more of their time avoiding activities and places they associate with the panic attack.

If this is all in my mind, am I crazy?

Not at all. It is, actually, quite a common disorder. Studies show that most people experience at least one panic attack during their lifetimes. Three out of every 100 people will develop panic disorder. Of those who seek treatment, about two- thirds have also developed some degree of agoraphobia.

Panic attacks can be hidden, even from doctors. People often worry about what others think of them. Since most people do not discuss their horrifying experiences with others, they feel even more isolated, lonely, and mentally ill.

Panic disorder usually begins in the late teens through the mid-thirties, but can also occur in children and older adults. Two-thirds of patients with panic disorder are women. The tendency to have panic attacks seems to run in families.

What else should I know about panic disorder?

As in any disease, people with panic disorder may have complications. Some people think of themselves as weak or defective because they have panic attacks. The strain that panic disorder puts on families can cause marital and family problems. In addition, about one-third of people with panic disorder also have depression or problems with drugs or alcohol. If you have panic disorder or agoraphobia, a complete physical exam is the first step. You can talk with your doctor about your panic attacks and any other physical and/or psychological problems you may be experiencing.

Alternative Treatments:

Once a panic disorder has been recognized and diagnosed, it is not necessary to start treating it with medications. This should be a last resort, unless you’ve reached a stage where you can no longer function. Remember, all medications have side-effects, some of which are dire and could worsen the condition, as well as put your life in jeopardy.

Fortunately, there are many natural approaches readily available to you. Your diet should be free of caffeine, sugar, and junk food (at the very least). Regular exercise should be incorporated into your daily routine. There are also many excellent books on the subject.

In addition, there is scientific evidence that hypnosis is a very effective and safe method of treatment for early-onset anxiety and panic disorders. If, however, these disorders continue to control your life, then you have no other option but to begin a regimen of prescription drugs.

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