Panic disorder is a real problem that can affect up to 7.5% of the general population at any given time. This common problem can be among the most debilitating mental health disorders we know of. The severity of the attacks that panic disorders cause can vary from patient to patient. All of them have similar physical manifestations that can sometimes make it difficult to diagnose the problem properly. However, in spite of this alarming situation, the general public tends to be unfamiliar with some of the basic facts surrounding panic disorders. Presented here is some basic information that could be useful to people who have panic disorders, or believe they know someone who may have this particular mental health problem.

The Signs:

The primary symptom of panic disorders would be having periods where the person sustains extreme anxiety. These periods are often known as panic attacks and are easily mistaken for signs of someone developing an anxiety disorder. The physical symptoms can vary from person to person and, in some cases, from attack to attack. Heart palpitations, excessive sweating, uncontrollable trembling, and nausea have all been cited as physical signs of a panic attack. The frequency of these attacks often vary from person to person, with some having attacks on a daily basis while others can be weekly or less.

The Chances of An Incorrect Diagnosis:

Due to the physical traits that panic disorders have, some people can easily make the mistake of believing it to be a physical problem. There are several physical problems that can bring about the same range of side effects and symptoms that are seen during panic attacks. Sometimes, the symptoms have been mistaken for a heart attack, epilepsy, or a stroke.

Possible Treatments:

Counseling has been shown to be helpful in alleviating panic disorders. Typically, psychiatric counseling is accompanied by the use of certain anti-depressants or anti-anxiety medications. The use of these medications can also benefit by breaking the assiciation between the panic disorders and what is causing the panic.This can help the patient recover faster. Proper counseling can also help patients adapt to a normal life, particularly if the symptoms were left untreated for an extended period.

Side Effects A Patient Might Develop:

untreated panic disorders have been known to cause side effects like depression, agorphobia, and social anxiety. Since panic attacks can occur during social interactions, it can sometimes cause someone to develop performance anxiety or social anxiety. This is particularly true if the attacks often occur at times of great stress for the patient. Other possible reactions to these “trigger” situations can be depression and lack of confidence, as the person continues to fail in his endeavors. The onset of these side effects not only has an effect on mental health, but can also make recovery even more difficult. As such, it is vitally important that the problem be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. That way, the damage it can do is kept to a minimum.

For other resources on Panic Symptoms And Their Treatment, see this site.