Panic disorder

Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by sudden and recurrent bouts of intense fear, known as panic attacks, that can be seemingly triggered without an identifiable cause.

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Panic attack

Overview

Individuals with panic disorder experience abrupt surges of intense fear or discomfort that peak within minutes. These episodes, referred to as panic attacks, can happen at any time, often without a clear trigger, leading to worry about their recurrence.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of a panic attack typically involve intense fear and at least four or more of the following:
• Palpitations, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rate
• Sweating
• Trembling or shaking
• Sensations of shortness of breath or smothering
• Feelings of choking
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Nausea or abdominal distress
• Feeling dizzy, unsteady, lightheaded, or faint
• Fear of losing control or going insane
• Fear of dying
• Numbness or tingling sensations (paresthesia)
• Chills or hot flashes

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of panic disorder is unclear, but it's believed to be a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Risk factors may include a family history of anxiety disorders, major life stressors, certain changes in brain function, and temperament.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves a comprehensive assessment that includes a medical examination, personal and family medical history, and psychological evaluation. The DSM-5 criteria are often used to diagnose panic disorder.

Treatment

Treatment typically involves a combination of psychotherapy (particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)) and medication. Medications such as SSRIs, benzodiazepines, and SNRIs may be used.

Prognosis

With proper treatment, most people with panic disorder can lead fulfilling lives. However, panic disorder is a chronic condition that may ebb and flow over time.

References

<references>

• American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
• Bandelow B, Michaelis S. Epidemiology of anxiety disorders in the 21st century. Dialogues Clin Neurosci. 2015;17(3):327-335.
• Saeed SA, Bloch RM, Antonacci DJ. Herbal and dietary supplements for treatment of anxiety disorders. Am Fam Physician. 2007 Aug 15;76(4):549-56.

</references>

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