DEFINITION
Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder. Its main characteristic is recurring severe panic attacks. Other symptoms may include significant behavioral change and ongoing worry about the possibility of having other attacks.
CAUSES
There is some genetic basis for panic disorder. There is evidence suggesting that certain families seem to be more susceptible to panic disorders and the disorder seems to be passed on from generations to generations. Panic disorder can co-exist with other hereditary disorders such as bipolar disorder. Panic disorder is associated with several parts of the brain that are involved in fear and anxiety. Further studies are needed to be conducted about these parts of brain in order to create better treatments.
There is a biological theory suggesting that panic attack may be caused by physical defects in a person’s autonomic (or automatic) nervous system. Some triggers of panic attacks are general hypersensitivity in the nervous system, sudden chemical imbalance, or increased arousal. Certain drugs such as caffeine, alcohol, and several others can also trigger these symptoms. The risk of developing panic attacks can also be increased by cigarette smoking
Environmental factors also play a big role in causing panic attacks. One especially important environmental factor is the effects of stress. Further researches are being conducted on the role stress plays in the formation of panic disorders.
SYMPTOMS
Some signs and symptoms of panic disorder are:
- Constant attacks of fear
- An intense worry about the future panic attacks
- A feeling of being out of control
- A tendency to avoid places where panic attacks have occurred in the past
- Pounding or racing heart
- Breathing problems
- Feeling hot or a cold chill
- Chest pain
- Sweating
- Weakness or dizziness
TREATMENTS
Two regular types of treatments are psychotherapy and medication.
Cognitive behavior therapy is a type of psychotherapy especially useful for treating panic disorder. People undergoing such therapy will learn different ways of thinking, behaving, and reacting to situations that help them experience less anxiety. People will be able to become less emotionally sensitive to the outside stimuli that are causing anxiety and gradually get used to the things that are frightening them. During the process, it is also essential to receive as much support as possible. Supportive and encouraging family members and friends will be of great help to aid your recovery. It is also helpful for family members and friends to communicate with the doctor to learn more about the treatment plan so that they will know the things that they need to do to be most helpful.
Medication is another effective treatment. Anti-anxiety medications and antidepressants are the mostly commonly prescribed medications. Normally medication has to be used in combination with psychotherapy to achieve its optimum effects. It is always helpful to learn more about the effects of different medications. Try ask your doctor about more information.
Leading a healthy lifestyle will be of great help in accelerating the process of recovery from panic disorder. Some important factors are exercise, diet, caffeine and alcohol intake, and stress levels.
REFERENCES
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panic_disorder#Treatment