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| Panic Disorders |
| Panic disorder is defined as recurring panic attacks, or episodes of intense fear accompanied by an array of physical symptoms that strike often without warning, even during sleep. Thank goodness that panic attacks tend to be brief, usually lasting only a few minutes, although sometimes I've had them last for about an hour. I feel like I'm flipping out. I am afraid, yet I don't know what of. Nothing sets them off, they just happen. For some reason, panic disorder is twice as common in women than men. It afflicts between 3 to 6 million Americans. This disorder ususally begins in young adulthood, but can strike at any age. If you have just one attack there is probably nothing to worry about. But if you have recurring attacks, you should be seen by a doctor. Without treatment people with panic disorder may develop a fear of supermarkets, public transportation, parties, or other places or situations where they've experienced attacks. After I see my therapist, I always have to have a 'unwined time'. So I ususually go to the book store or Target...they're on my way home. Anyway it never fails...I always have an attack in Target. I feel like I could completely lose it at any time. In about 1/3 of cases, these irrational fears progress to agoraphobia, or the fear of being in a place or situation from which escape might be difficult or embarrassing. Some are afraid to leave their homes. In many cases thought early treatment of panic disorders can prevent agoraphobia from developing. According to research, at least 70% can be helped with cognitive-behavior psychotherapy, medications, or both. For those who respond to treatment improvemnet is usually seen in 6 to 8 weeks. Some Symptomes of Panic Disorder.... -pounding heart -fear of losing control or going crazy -shaking or trembling, sweating -sensations of shortness of breath or smothering -chest pain, nausea -chills or hotflashes -dizziness, lightheaded, or faint -feeling out of touch with reality, fear of dying |
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| See links for anxiety for more information on panic disorder |
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