Who Can Suffer From Panic Disorder?
Although there isn’t much information about the major causes of panic disorder, there are lots of facts to explain that some groups of individuals are more prone to suffering from it than others. For instance, National Institute of Mental Health has explained that women are more prone to experiencing panic attacks than men.
Can Panic Disorder Be Diagnosed?
Emergency medical care may be an option once you are experiencing panic disorder. Majority of those who usually experience this problem at first consider it to be heart attack.
Various tests will be carried out by the emergency provider to know whether the symptoms are being caused by heart attacks. In order to ensure that other conditions are ruled out, blood tests may be run. Electrocardiogram (ECG) may also be used in checking how the heart functions. Once nothing is found in relation to the symptoms you are experiencing, you will then be referred back.
Mental health examination will be carried out by your care provider. You’ll be asked about the symptoms. Prior to making any panic disorder diagnosis, every other medical disorder must be ruled out.
How Can Panic Disorder Be Treated?
Panic disorder treatment will focus on getting rid of the symptoms. Therapy is how this will happen through a professional. There are cases when medication will be required. CBT (cognitive – behavioral therapy) is what therapy involves. It will be aiming to help you have a change in both your actions and thoughts. This will enable you to not only understand the nature of your attack but also manage your fears very well.
Medications which are being used in the treatment of panic disorder do include: antidepressant, SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). SSRIs being prescribed or recommended for panic disorder include
- Sertraline
- Paroxetine
- Fluoxetine
Some medications which can sometimes be used are:
- SNRIs (serotonin – norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors)
- Antiseizure drugs
- Benzodiazepines – includes clonazepam or diazepam
- MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors). This is a form of antidepressant but used rarely due to its side effects.
Still talking about treatments, there are some home remedies which you can take in order to reduce these symptoms. Some of them are:
- Maintenance of regular schedule
- Regular exercise
- Getting regular rest
- Avoiding of stimulants like caffeine
What Actually is The Outlook on Long – Term Basis?
Panic disorder is an abnormal condition which isn’t easy to treat. There are people who don’t respond positively to treatments. Also, there are others who may not experience any symptoms at one point and then start developing intense symptoms the next time. Through treatment, most people are going to experience relief.
Prevention of Panic Disorder
Prevention of panic disorder may not be possible. However, the symptoms can be reduced through avoidance of alcohol and use of stimulants like caffeine. The same can be said of illicit drugs. If something which you once experienced in the past is bothering you, ensure to talk it over with your care provider. Also, try as much as you can to ensure that anxiety symptoms are noticed.
