Recognize the Symptoms of Panic Disorder

Symptoms of Panic Disorder

Physical symptoms like sweaty palms and an elevated heart rate are characteristic of panic attacks. But, not everyone who experiences a panic attack will develop panic disorder. There is a fine line between the two. Other physical symptoms include:

• Chest pain
• Stomach pain
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Breathing difficulties
• Weakness
• Hot or cold flashes

The National Institute of Mental Health notes that panic attacks usually peak at 10 minutes for most people. Those with panic disorder may experience these feelings for much longer. A person with the illness may experience higher blood pressure or an increased heart rate for an extended period of time as a result of the attack.

The emotional and mental symptoms that accompany panic disorder are far more severe, often resulting in a person changing his/her schedule and habits. The primary indicator is fear, most notably an irrational, crippling, and/or inappropriate fear response. A person with panic disorder may:

• Fear the next panic attack and preoccupy himself/herself with that fear.
• Worry about being out of control during the next attack.
• Avoid places or triggers that remind him/her of a previous panic attack (for example, if a panic attack was experienced in a doctor’s office, a person may avoid all doctors’ offices for fear of another attack).
• Experience sudden and repeated panic attacks

Panic disorder is often associated with comorbidity, especially substance abuse and depression. People with panic disorder may often feel helpless and anxious about the illness, or even guilty about not being able to live life without that fear.

Getting Treatment for Panic Disorder

When left untreated, panic disorder can develop into phobias, primarily agoraphobia. The American Psychological Association also indicates that those suffering from panic disorder have higher rates of suicide attempts, spend more time in hospitals, are prone to financial dependence and substance abuse, and report feeling unhealthy both physically and emotionally.

This is why treatment is vital. Only a medical professional can diagnose you with panic disorder, so it’s important to get help if you match the criteria listed above. Your panic attacks can be helped; it just takes some time to master them. A comprehensive treatment facility will have a team of qualified physicians, counselors, and nurses on staff who can help you manage your panic disorder so you can live a life that is free of fear. Fear shouldn’t keep you from enjoying the things, places, and people you love. Give us a call today and, we can connect you with treatment that can help you heal.