Carbonell Institute
Panic
Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder. It causes panic attacks, which are sudden feelings of terror for no apparent reason. Physical symptoms may also occur, such as: rapid heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Panic attacks can happen anytime, anywhere, and without warning. You may fear another attack and avoid places where you've had one before. In some cases, fear dominates a person's life, and they may be unable to leave their home. Panic disorder is more common in women than in men. It usually begins in young adulthood. Sometimes it starts when a person is under a lot of stress. Most people get better with treatment. Therapy can show you how to identify and change thought patterns before they lead to panic. Medication may also be helpful.
Symptoms of panic
A panic attack begins suddenly and often peaks within 10 to 20 minutes. Some symptoms may continue for an hour or more. A panic attack can be mistaken for a heart attack. Panic attacks can include anxiety about being in a situation where escape might be difficult (such as being in a crowd or traveling in a car or bus). A person with panic disorder often lives in fear of another attack and may be afraid of being alone or away from medical help. People with panic disorder experience at least four of the following symptoms during an attack: Chest discomfort or pain; Dizziness or lightheadedness; Fear of dying; Fear of losing control or of impending death; Feeling of suffocation; Feelings of detachment; Feelings of unreality; Nausea and stomach upset; Numbness or tingling in hands, feet, or face; Palpitations, rapid heart rate, or pounding heartbeat; Feeling short of breath or suffocated; Sweating, chills, or hot flashes; Trembling or shaking. Panic attacks can change behavior and performance at home, work, or school. People with this disorder often worry about the effects of their panic attacks. People with panic disorder may also have symptoms of alcoholism, depression, or drug addiction. Panic attacks cannot be predicted. At least in the early stages of the disorder, there is no trigger that starts the attack. The memory of a past attack can trigger panic attacks. At the Carbonell Institute you can find your psychiatrist in Palma de Mallorca, where Dr. Jose Carbonell and his team of psychiatrists and psychologists will advise you on the treatment best suited to your needs.
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