Most people have experienced the symptoms of a panic attack at one time or another:
- the racing heart beat,
- sweaty palms,
- shaky legs or hands,
- tunnel vision,
- feeling an overwhelming desire to run away,
- feeling that something terrible is about to happen.
A panic attack is a normal human response to danger. It is a physiological response that is actually designed to help people either fight or flee from danger.
What is the Primary Symptom of Panic Disorder?
But for approximately 3 to 5% of the population, panic attacks occur when there is no real danger present. This is the primary symptom of Panic Disorder.
Diagnosing Panic Disorder
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, (American Psychiatric Association, 1994,) Panic Disorder is diagnosed when panic attacks reoccur unexpectedly and seemingly out of the blue, and when the panic attacks are followed by at least one month of persistent concern about having additional attacks. Panic Disorder with Agoraphobia is diagnosed when the person experiencing the panic attacks avoids places or situations that he or she believes might cause a panic attack, or places and situations from which escape might be difficult or embarrassing in the event of a panic attack.
Who Has Panic Disorder?
Panic Disorder occurs across cultures. It affects men and women (but more women than men) from all walks of life, rich and poor, educated and uneducated. Panic Disorder usually first strikes in the early twenties or mid-thirties, but young and old people may also be affected.
Some people continue to function well, holding down highly responsible jobs, traveling and having an active family and social life, in spite of all of the anxiety that they feel. The toll taken by Panic Disorder may not be obvious to the outsider though the person having panic attacks may be suffering very much.
Others may be forced to severely limit their lives and avoid places and situations that they fear would bring on a panic attack. Their worlds may become so limited that they are unable to even step outside their front doors. Panic Disorder can affect relationships.
Panic Disorder Treatments are Effective
Panic attacks can be a symptom of other psychological conditions, but those who are diagnosed simply with Panic Disorder or Panic Disorder with Agoraphobia have two excellent treatment options available to them, which can be used either individually or together.
Panic Disorder and Agoraphobia respond exceptionally well to a specific type of therapy known as cognitive-behavioral therapy. The key to successful treatment is to find a specialist in the cognitive-behavioral treatment of Panic Disorder. Organizations like the Anxiety Disorders Association of America can help patients find a such a person.
Anti-depressant and anti-anxiety medications are also an option. However it is recommended that therapy is tried first to get a better, more long lasting result. Sometimes medication is combined with therapy, if necessary.
There is hope for those with Panic Disorder.
This article is for general information only and is not intended as a substitute for personal, medical or mental health advice. Anyone experiencing troubling symptoms should see a medical or mental health professional.
