Panic Disorder (Panic Attacks)
Many people occasionally experience brief, intense anxiety when under an unusual amount of stress. This is a reaction that is usually considered to be normal. However, people who suffer from regular panic attacks, approximately 1-2% of Americans, experience panic symptoms “out of the blue” where often times no apparent reason or cause can be found. They often feel like they are “going crazy” or having a heart attack; many trips to our emergency rooms are made by people who have panic attacks.
Some of the core symptoms of panic attacks include the following:
- Recurring, unexpected episodes of intense anxiety
- Difficulty catching your breath
- Pounding or racing heart
- Sweating and/or trembling
- Nausea and/or dizziness
- Feeling a sense of dread, or like you are going to die
If you are experiencing recurring, unexpected episodes of intense anxiety and have three or more of the symptoms above, there is a very good chance that you may be suffering from Panic Attacks. Panic attacks that continue over time are referred to as Panic Disorder. Panic Attacks may be caused by other medical disorders including thyroid and other endocrinological diseases, excessive alcohol or drug use, heart disease, and various mood disorders. Prescription and non-prescription medications and supplements may also cause panic attacks.
Contact us to schedule an initial evaluation. Qualified participants will receive study related care at no charge and there is no need for health insurance.