Panic attacks and panic disorder
A panic attack is a sudden wave of intense fear with strong body symptoms. Many people rush to the emergency room thinking it is a heart attack. When attacks keep coming back and you start fearing the next one, it is called panic disorder.
Dr. Deeksha Rohilla treats panic attacks and panic disorder at Seawoods, Vashi and Bandra, and online.
Symptoms of a panic attack
- Racing or pounding heart
- Breathlessness or a choking feeling
- Chest tightness
- Dizziness, sweating or trembling
- Tingling in hands or feet
- Fear of dying, fainting or losing control
How panic disorder is treated
First, physical causes such as heart or thyroid problems are ruled out where needed. Treatment then usually combines CBT, which teaches you to understand and control the panic cycle, with medicine that reduces how often attacks happen. Slow breathing and grounding methods help during an attack. Most people return to normal activities, including travel and driving, within a few months.