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1 min read
Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder defined by the presence of unexpected and recurrent panic episodes. These episodes are short but intense, causing extreme fear or discomfort for the person experiencing them, arising without a real threat and generally presenting evident physical symptoms. Although sporadic panic attacks are common, if they are repeated, they can lead to a panic disorder that impacts the quality of life of the affected individuals.
This disorder is characterized by the frequent occurrence of panic attacks, which can happen daily or even just a few times a year. When a person experiences a panic attack, they may suffer from both physical and emotional symptoms, such as rapid heartbeats, sweating, trembling, difficulty breathing, a feeling of losing control over the situation, or fear of death. Frequently, these attacks can cause constant distress about potential future attacks, resulting in the avoidance of situations or places where attacks previously occurred.
Although the exact cause of panic disorder is not understood, several factors can influence its occurrence: there may be a genetic predisposition, even if not all family members manifest it; imbalances in certain neurotransmitters may play a role in the biology and chemistry of the brain; a high degree of stress and traumatic situations, especially in childhood, can increase the risk; it is more prevalent in women and generally appears in late adolescence or early adulthood.
People who suffer from panic disorder may experience:
These symptoms can persist for a short period or extend beyond sixty minutes and can arise without prior warning.
Panic disorder is diagnosed through a clinical evaluation, where a mental health professional analyzes the patient's medical history and physical symptoms to rule out possible physical problems that could be causing the symptoms. Along with this, a psychological examination is conducted that includes specific tests related to panic disorder. Typically, treatment involves a combination of psychotherapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy to change negative thought patterns, and the administration of antidepressant medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).
It is also advisable to follow a healthy lifestyle, as it can be beneficial. It is recommended to abstain from consuming alcohol and reduce caffeine intake, maintain a balanced diet, get good sleep, exercise regularly, and engage in support groups to share experiences and coping strategies. While panic disorder is not fatal, it significantly disrupts the daily life of those who suffer from it. However, with proper identification and intervention, individuals can acquire skills to control their symptoms and enjoy a fulfilling life.