Is Panic Disorder a Disability? Having a panic disorder is a problem that many people face, but it isn’t something that has to be a disability. There are things you may do to alleviate your anxiety if you ever experience a panic attack.
Symptoms of a Panic Attack
Symptoms of a panic attack in panic disorder are very unpleasant and can seriously affect your life. Although these attacks are not life-threatening, they can cause a lot of distress, affecting your relationships, work, and your overall quality of life. If you think you may have a panic disorder, contact your doctor for help.
Attacks of panic can come on at any time, even while a person is sleeping.They typically last anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes and peak within 10 minutes of the start of the attack.
Symptoms of a panic attack in panic disorder:
- Rapid breathing
- Heart pounding
- Sweating
- Lightheadedness
- Chest pain
- Feeling like about to die or that you’re going crazy during an attack
It’s likely that your doctor will put you on medication if you’ve had a history of panic attacks. These can include anti-anxiety drugs, such as benzodiazepines, and tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline. Depending on your condition, your doctor may recommend cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches you how to respond differently to certain triggers that cause an attack.
In some cases, a panic attack can be triggered by an illness, such as a cold. Studies have indicated that heart attack survivors develop panic attack symptoms.
Treatment Options for Panic Attacks
Fortunately, there are numerous therapy options available for panic attacks. They include medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes. You can work with your healthcare provider to determine your best approach.
Medications are usually the first line of defense. They may be used alone, but often they are combined with other treatments. The goal is to eliminate all of your symptoms.
A better understanding of your disease and general health can be gained through therapy. It can help you build coping skills and identify negative thinking patterns. It can also help you reframe your fears.
Exercise and eating a healthy diet are also important. They can help you avoid panic attacks in the future.
Antidepressants and benzodiazepines are two common medications used for panic disorder. They are effective at controlling symptoms. They should be taken under supervision.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is another treatment option. It helps you understand the physical symptoms of panic attacks and can also help you respond to them more adaptively. It also gives you the tools to overcome your fears.
Managing Panic Attacks isn’t always easy. They are uncomfortable and can ruin your day. The good news is that you can control them and get back to enjoying your life.
Long-term Effects of Panic Attacks
Various reports have shown that the long-term effects of panic attacks can have negative impacts on the body. It is advisable to seek help from a medical professional. A doctor can determine the cause of your panic attacks and recommend appropriate treatment.
Some individuals are more prone to suffer from panic attacks than others. Some symptoms include rapid heartbeat, dizziness, sweating, and shortness of breath.
Some people also experience nausea, fatigue, headaches, and lightheadedness. They may also feel depressed. They are often uncomfortable, unable to sleep, and have a difficult time eating.
Panic attacks can also disrupt relationships and interfere with daily activities. Many people with frequent or repeated attacks avoid certain situations.
Those who suffer from anxiety can suffer from depression and a decline in their overall physical health. This is a result of the stress caused by the attacks.
Panic attacks are brief episodes of acute dread. It starts quickly and peaks in minutes. Stress or sleep can cause it.
Panic attacks can make you feel unsafe, dying, or out of control. Though uncomfortable, the symptoms aren’t harmful.
See a licensed medical professional immediately if you are experiencing a panic attack. Your doctor will do an in-depth physical examination and ask you questions about your symptoms. They will also order laboratory tests to rule out other possible causes.
Related Article: Affordable Therapy NYC