Panic disorder is defined as “a sudden episode of intense fear that triggers severe physical reactions when there is no real danger or apparent cause” (Mayo Clinic, website). The cause of a panic disorder is unknown but manifestations like genetics, extreme stress in one’s life, an individual’s ability to handle stress and negativity and electrical …show more content…
Individuals who smoke or consume caffeine frequently; had a traumatic event such as rape, incest, accident; history of sexual or physical abuse may be more prone to have panic attacks. Complications involved with a panic disorder when they are not treated pertain to the individual not wanting to leave the house (isolation), withdrawing from events due to fear of having an attack, depression, substance abuse, financial problems, poor work at school and on the job, can even cause an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or even suicide. In order for the doctor to be able to treat an individual with this disorder, they may want to run some test. The test that are usually involved include blood work to test your thyroid; to make sure that there are no other problems (hormones) that may be triggering these attacks, checking your heart by ordering an electrocardiogram (ECG) may be included to see if there are any circulation impairment or dysfunctional rhythms that may be preventing oxygen to …show more content…
This helps the individual understand the disorder and how to maintain through the attacks. This method usually has a longer time frame, but the therapist could start to see improvements in a few weeks. After months of therapy, the symptoms may decrease or completely disappear. Drug therapy is also used instead of or addition to therapy.
Selective Serotonin reuptake inhibitors consist of Paxil, Prozac, Zoloft. This class is usually tried first. Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors include Effexor (ER). Benzodiazepines may be given and are sedatives. They act upon the central nervous system. Xanax and Clonazepam are given in this group. After everything has been set up and the individual is stable, giving them some activities or teaching can really help the individual improve greatly. Remind the individual that staying on the plan constructed helps in prevention of the attack, let them know about support groups they can attend, avoiding caffeine and smoking and decrease attacks, get a good night rest is very important, include relaxation techniques to help them maintain/control, going outside or getting exercise of some sort provides the body with oxygen and maintains an overall well-being