Q. What is panic disorder?
A. It is very common and treatable disorder. Panic disorder have unexpected and repeated periods of intense fear or discomfort, along with other symptoms such a racing heartbeat or feeling short of breath. These periods are called "panic attacks".
Q. What are the symptoms of panic disorder?
A. Dizziness or light headedness, racing or pounding heartbeat, intense fearfulness (strong thinking something terrible is happening), sense of unreality, fear of dying, losing control or going crazy, shortness of breath, trembling on shaking are the common symptoms of panic disorder. Sometimes these patients are afraid to leave home, are anxious most of the time. If the patient is in severe depression, there may be at risk of suicidal behaviour.
Q. How to deal with panic disorder?
A. Panic disorder is difficult to diagnose. It requires many visits to physicians, and multiple medical tests for proper evaluation and diagnosis. Panic disorder usually responds to treatment. There are several types of treatment and specific medications, which stop panic attacks. Psychotherapy may also be required. Early treatment can prevent the complication of panic disorder such as agoraphobia, (fear of places), depression and substance abuse.
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Contributor Information and Disclosures
Dr Ira Shah
Consultant Pediatrician, B.J.Wadia Hospital for Children, Mumbai, India
First Created: 12/25/2001
Last Updated: 8/1/2015