PANIC DISORDERS
Can Respond Well To Treatment
What Is Panic Disorder?
Panic Disorder is an anxiety disorder marked by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks, together with ongoing worry about future attacks or changes in behavior to avoid them, lasting at least one month.
A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear or discomfort that peaks within minutes. It is not the same as the disorder: many people have one or a few isolated attacks without developing panic disorder. The attacks feel catastrophic, often like a heart attack or losing control, even though there is no real danger, and they usually resolve on their own.
Symptoms Of A Panic Attack
A panic attack involves at least four of these symptoms, starting abruptly and peaking quickly:
- Pounding or racing heart, or palpitations
- Sweating
- Trembling or shaking
- Shortness of breath or feeling smothered
- Feeling of choking
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Nausea or abdominal distress
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or faintness
- Chills or hot flashes
- Numbness or tingling
- Feelings of unreality, or of detachment from oneself
- Fear of losing control or "going crazy"
- Fear of dying
The feelings of unreality are called derealization, and the detachment from oneself depersonalization. Attacks can occur "out of the blue," during sleep, or in situations that used to feel safe. They typically last from minutes to under an hour. People with panic disorder also experience persistent worry about more attacks, concern about their consequences, or avoidance of places or situations linked to past attacks, which can lead to agoraphobia.
Having some of these signs does not by itself mean panic disorder. Only a qualified clinician can tell what they point to.
How Common Is It?
In the United States, about 2.7 percent of adults experience panic disorder in a given year, and roughly 4.7 percent do so at some point in their lives. It is roughly twice as common in women as in men. Onset is most often in the late teens or early adulthood.
Causes And Risk Factors
The exact cause is unknown.
Contributing factors include:
- Genetics and family history: Panic disorder can run in families, passing between generations.
- Brain biology and chemistry: Areas that process fear, such as the amygdala, and neurotransmitters such as serotonin and GABA are involved.
- Environmental stressors: Major life changes or trauma, especially in childhood.
- Other factors: Certain medical conditions or substance use can trigger or mimic symptoms.
It is often described as the body's alarm system firing too easily or too intensely: "false alarms."
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is clinical, based on history and symptom criteria, usually those of DSM‑5, after ruling out medical causes. A health care provider will take a history, perform a physical exam, and may order tests, for example for thyroid problems, heart issues, or other conditions that can produce similar symptoms. Panic attacks must not be solely due to substances, medications, or another medical or mental health condition.
A proper diagnosis can only come from a thorough professional evaluation by a qualified clinician.
Treatment
Panic disorder is highly treatable. Most people improve substantially with appropriate care.
The right treatment for each person is decided with their clinician.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy CBT is the gold‑standard psychotherapy. It helps change thoughts and reactions to anxiety sensations, includes interoceptive exposure, which means safely experiencing the physical symptoms of panic, and reduces avoidance. Typical courses are roughly 9 to 16 sessions; shorter intensive formats also exist and can be effective.
- Medications: SSRIs and SNRIs are first‑line. They take several weeks to reach full effect. Benzodiazepines can give rapid relief but are generally limited to short‑term use because of the risks of dependence and tolerance. Beta‑blockers may help physical symptoms in some situations.
- Combination: Therapy and medication are often used together. Lifestyle steps such as regular sleep, exercise, less caffeine and alcohol, and stress management support treatment but do not replace it.
Guidelines, including those of the National Institute of Mental Health NIMH, the American Psychiatric Association APA, and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence NICE, support CBT and antidepressants as primary options. With treatment, many people achieve a significant reduction or remission of symptoms.
Important Notes
Panic attacks can closely mimic serious medical emergencies, especially heart problems, so a medical evaluation is important to rule out physical causes. Untreated panic disorder can lead to avoidance, reduced quality of life, depression, or substance problems, but the outlook with treatment is generally good.
If you are in crisis, call or text 988. In an emergency, call 911.
This is general information based on sources such as the National Institute of Mental Health NIMH and MedlinePlus. It is not a diagnosis, personalized advice, or a substitute for professional care. If you or someone else is experiencing symptoms, consult a doctor or mental health professional. In a crisis, or if there are thoughts of self‑harm, contact local emergency services or a crisis line, such as 988 in the United States.
Who Do We Help?
Children, teenagers and adults with panic attacks, including those who have begun to avoid places or situations for fear of another one.
How Can We Help?
Psychotherapy teaches skills that calm the alarm and help keep it from returning, and Medication Management finds the right medicine when medicine can help.
What Are My Options?
If you are wondering if we could be a good fit for you or have questions about how we can craft your own specialized treatment plan, please reach out to learn more.
For individuals with urgent needs we may be able to offer same-day or next-day appointments to ensure that you get the care you need as quickly as possible.
Accessible And Flexible Treatment Options
Conveniently located in West Lake Hills, we provide expert psychiatric care and psychological testing for patients in
Austin, Rollingwood, Tarrytown, Bee Cave, Lakeway and Surrounding Communities in Central Texas.
Our Mission is to Provide the Best Psychiatric Care and Psychological Testing in Austin. Contact Us today, we love to help!
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1. Fill Out Our Request Form
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A member of our Patient Care Team will reach out at your convenience.
2. Call Us For Expedited Scheduling
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