If you often feel anxious and are prone to episodes of panic, you could have panic disorder. It’s a treatable condition, and your psychiatrist can help. Dr. Arvinder Walia of Northwest Psychiatry in Austin, TX, offers a full range of mental health and psychiatric services, including diagnosis and treatment of panic disorder.
What You Need To Know About Panic Disorder
Panic disorder is a condition resulting in unexpected feelings of panic and fear. These feelings of panic and fear can produce unpleasant mental and physical signs and symptoms, including:
- A feeling of losing control
- A feeling of impending doom
- A detached feeling
- Rapid, pounding heartbeat
- Profuse sweating
- Trembling and shaking
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea and stomach discomfort
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Chest pain and chills
- Sleeping problems
- Lack of focus and concentration
- Numbness and tingling in the extremities
There are several factors which can cause panic disorder, including:
- Genetics and family history
- Changes in brain function
- Stressful situations and environment
- Psychological trauma or an accident
- Substance use, excessive caffeine or nicotine intake
A psychiatrist can diagnose panic disorder by providing a complete psychological evaluation of your thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Your symptoms are then compared to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to achieve a diagnosis.
If you are diagnosed with panic disorder, your psychiatrist may recommend these effective treatments to manage panic disorder:
Psychotherapy, working with your psychiatrist to reduce panic disorder symptoms. Treatment includes counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, and exposure therapy to help you develop coping skills to deal with or avoid events that can cause panic attacks.
Medication to reduce and relieve panic disorder symptoms. Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and, in some cases, sedatives are all types of medications used to treat panic disorder.
Want To Know More About Panic Disorder?
To learn more about the signs, symptoms, and treatment of panic disorder, call Dr. Walia of Northwest Psychiatry in Austin, TX. You can reach him in the office by calling (512) 342-7979, so call today.