Northwest Psychiatry is here to help patients with panic disorder in Austin, TX. We see many adult patients who deal with panic attacks and can help you recognize triggers and manage your symptoms. Take back control of your life with psychiatric treatment for panic disorder.
What Is Panic Disorder?
Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by episodes of unexpected panic attacks. Recurring panic attacks present feelings of intense fear and discomfort. These attacks occur unexpectedly, without exposure to a trigger. Panic disorder can come on after big life changes, but it can also be difficult to determine a cause or reason someone suffers from panic disorder. Women are twice as likely to suffer from panic disorder than men, although anyone can experience a panic attack
What Are the Symptoms?
Panic attacks mimic your body's natural response to fear. Symptoms can include:
- Intense fear and discomfort
- Sweating
- Racing heart
- Heart palpitations
- Dizziness
- Shaking or trembling
- Chest tightness
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
- Sensations of choking
- Derealization (feeling disconnected from reality or oneself)
The frequency and severity of attacks vary greatly from patient to patient. Some experience expected panic attacks as well as unexpected attacks, and some can experience attacks in 'bursts', having frequent daily attacks and then go weeks or months without an attack.
Repeated panic attacks over time impact mental health and can overcome patients with the anxiety of anticipating another attack. It is common for panic disorder to cooccur with depression, a personality disorder, or substance abuse, so pursuing treatment for your panic can save you from deep depression and disorder.
How Do I Deal With Panic Disorder?
If you have been diagnosed with panic disorder, your Austin, TX, psychiatrist can develop a treatment plan for your symptoms. The most common treatments are:
- Anti-depressant medications: Many antidepressants are also effective for anxiety
- Benzodiazepine medications: Fast-acting drugs for quick relief of an attack
- Cognitive behavioral therapy: Talk therapy with a psychologist helps you identify triggers and develop coping skills
Treat Your Panic Disorder
Come to Northwest Psychiatry if you are suffering from symptoms of panic disorder. Contact our psychiatric team in Austin, TX, today at (512) 342-7979.