Panic attack, sudden onset of intense apprehension, fear, or terror that occurs without apparent cause. A panic attack is diagnosed based on the occurrence of at least four physical (somatic) or psychological symptoms. Physical symptoms may include short
A typical panic attack can mimic many harmful conditions. The doctor must "think of the worst" to be sure not to miss a diagnosis with a potentially more medically serious outcome. At the doctor's office or emergency department, you can expect the doctor to take a thorough history and perf...
Loved ones, as well as medical personnel, generally attempt to reassure the panic attack sufferer that he or she is not in great danger. However, these efforts at reassurance can sometimes add to the patient's struggles. If the doctors say things like, "it's nothing serious," "it's all...
Loved ones, as well as medical personnel, generally attempt to reassure the panic attack sufferer that he or she is not in great danger. However, these efforts at reassurance can sometimes add to the patient's struggles. If the doctors say things like, "it's nothing serious," "it's all...
Panic attacks may be a symptom of an anxiety disorder. Panic attack treatment consists of medication and psychotherapy. Learn the difference between a panic attack vs. an anxiety disorder.
Intervening and seeking treatment early can often prevent agoraphobia, but people with panic disorder may sometimes go to numerous medical doctors for years or visit the emergency room repeatedly before being correctly diagnosed. This is unfortunate, as panic disorder is one of the most treatable of...
Panic Attack Treatment Dr. Fisher utilizes a research-informed panic attack treatment called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Prolonged Exposure Therapy. As the name implies, this is a behavioral (no medications) approach to treatment of panic attacks with or without agoraphobia. This treatment helps...
Many people mistake a panic attack for a medical emergency, like a heart attack. The symptoms can seem similar, but panic attacks aren’t life-threatening. They usually pass in several minutes, but they can sometimes linger for hours. Afterward, you might feel drained and exhausted. What Happ...
Do I need to go to the emergency room if I have a panic attack? In most cases, a single panic attack episode does not require emergency medical care. However, it's important to discuss your symptoms with your health care team. They will evaluate you for medical disorders that may contrib...
Treatment optionsThe following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.nortriptyline Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:You have any of the following signs of a heart attack: Squeezing, pressure, or pain in your chest You may also have...