Panic disorder is a condition that falls under the category of anxiety disorders, characterized by sudden and intense panic attacks. Patients often feel as if they are about to die or believe they are having a heart attack, going crazy, or losing control.
What You Need to Know About Panic Disorder
Panic attacks are typically brief, sudden, and provoke intense physical reactions. Feelings of anxiety and fear occur frequently even without a specific cause or warning signs.
Causes of Panic Disorder
Currently, the exact cause of panic disorder has not been identified, but researchers have found a connection between certain brain regions and feelings of fear and anxiety. Neurotransmitters (such as serotonin and epinephrine) may contribute to the condition.
The exact cause of panic disorder has not yet been identified.
Panic attacks can occur suddenly and without warning, but over time they are often triggered by specific situations. Some potential triggers include:
- Genetics
- Stress, sensitivity to stress, or vulnerability to negative emotions
- Changes in the functioning of certain brain regions
- Caffeine, nicotine, and other substances that may exacerbate panic
- Medications such as steroids, respiratory inhalers, thyroid medications, weight loss drugs, and allergy, cough, and cold medications may also contribute to the disorder
Symptoms of Panic Disorder
Symptoms of panic disorder include:
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Chest and stomach pain
- Dizziness, rapid breathing, shortness of breath, or weakness
- Cold sweats
- Feelings of anxiety, despair, and thoughts of negative outcomes
- A sense of impending danger, fear of losing control, or dying
- Restlessness, inability to sit still, talking very quickly
- Habits such as nail-biting or clenching fists
Risk Factors for Panic Disorder
- Panic disorder is commonly seen in teenagers but is particularly prevalent among individuals aged 18-19, with a higher incidence in females compared to males.
- Individuals under significant stress in their lives.
People with risk factors for developing panic disorder include:
- Experiencing significant losses in life (loss of loved ones, breakups, etc.)
- Having a history of severe psychological trauma such as sexual abuse, physical abuse, or serious accidents
- Going through major life changes such as divorce or postpartum depression
- Smoking or abusing caffeine
- A family history of panic attacks or panic disorder
Prevention of Panic Disorder
To prevent panic disorder, the following measures can be taken:
- Ensure adequate sleep, engage in daily exercise, and maintain a balanced diet
- Try to reduce stress in daily life
- Learn relaxation techniques such as meditation, massage, yoga, tai chi, and stress-reduction exercises
- Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing frequent panic attacks, adverse effects from medications, depression, or suicidal thoughts
Diagnostic Measures for Panic Disorder
The diagnostic criteria for panic disorder according to the American Psychiatric Association (DSM IV) require at least 4 out of 13 symptoms from the following list:
- Rapid heartbeat, palpitations
- Excessive sweating
- Trembling hands or legs
- Feeling of choking
- Feeling of shallow breathing
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Nausea or abdominal pain
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Feelings of unreality or depersonalization
- Fear of losing control or going crazy
- Fear of dying
- Feeling numb
- Chills or hot flashes
Treatment Options for Panic Disorder
All patients with panic disorder should manage stress by pursuing personal interests or engaging in regular physical activities and healthy eating.
There are various combined treatment methods that can reduce or eliminate panic disorder, such as:
- Behavioral therapy, including biofeedback techniques
- Patients learn to control their breath to alter muscle tension or brain waves
- Other methods such as progressive muscle relaxation, visualization, meditation, or hypnosis
Antidepressants may also be considered, but they can have side effects such as drowsiness or dependency. Individuals with a history of stimulant use should avoid these medications.