Panic Disorder: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
Panic disorder is a prevalent and significant condition that typically manifests during adolescence, particularly in the early teenage years. There is no definite cause for Panic disorder. However, it is often triggered by major life events and transitions such as graduation, marriage, or having children for the first time. There is a stronger risk of developing Panic disorder if another family member has the condition.
While panic attacks themselves are not physically harmful, they can evoke intense fear and distress. These episodes arise abruptly, without any forewarning, and typically endure for a brief duration of a few minutes.
Symptoms include:
– Heart palpitations,
– Fearing you are having a stroke,
– Shivering, sweating, shaking,
– Hot flushes, chills,
– A fear of going mad or dying,
– Breathing difficulties, a sensation of not having enough air,
– Dizziness, nausea, light-headedness,
– Chest pain, a choking sensation,
– Pins and needles in fingers and toes.
How is Panic Disorder Diagnosed?
Identifying this condition necessitates specialized knowledge and expertise, and it is essential to have Panic disorder diagnosed by a qualified therapist. Many people experience panic attacks at some point in their lives; this does not necessarily mean they are suffering from Panic disorder. Common signs of the condition include having attacks repeatedly and developing a fear about having these attacks. If you have had four or more attacks and are worried that you might have another, you should consult a professional.
What are the Causes of Panic Disorder?
Although a genetic susceptibility to anxiety disorders could be a significant element, the occurrence of stressful life events like bereavement or separation may contribute to triggering the condition. Physiological and psychological factors play an important role in Panic disorder. Sufferers may accelerate and worsen the symptoms of an attack by interpreting physical, such as heart palpitations, inaccurately. Therefore, it is important to address both biological and psychological factors in therapy.
How is Panic Disorder Treated?
Inadequate treatment of Panic disorder can lead to severe ramifications, including social isolation, the development of phobias, and an increased risk of alcohol and substance misuse. However, with appropriate psychotherapy, panic disorder can successfully be treated. With ongoing therapy, it is possible to recover without permanent complications. In terms of approach, the best treatment for Panic disorder is agreed to be a combination of cognitive and behavioural therapies. If necessary, medication can also be considered.
In therapy, education plays a vital role and holds significant value. Many people show progress when they learn more about their panic attacks; what causes them and how they can identify triggers. Different techniques and methods can be used in the treatment of panic disorder; these may include cognitive reconstruction, interoceptive exposure, identifying triggers and relaxation techniques. It is extremely important that these techniques are taught by recognised experts only.
How Long Does the Treatment Take?
The effectiveness of therapy greatly relies on the patient’s level of motivation and their willingness to adhere to the prescribed treatment plan. If carried out consistently, improvements can be noticeable in 10-20 sessions. For further and lasting improvements, a long-term treatment plan should be followed, which may differ from person to person in terms of length.
