Do I Have A Panic Disorder

A person with a panic disorder is one who has frequent recurring panic attacks over the course of a month or longer

. The person's behavior can be drastically altered as they try to cope with the attacks themselves, but just as damaging is the constant ongoing worry that another attack will occur.

Those who suffer from panic disorder are at a higher risk of death through cardiovascular mortality and suicide. Panic disorder can be considered disabling if not treated, but treatment options are varied and largely successful.

A single panic attack typically lasts for around ten minutes, but can be from one minute to twenty minutes. However, with a sufferer of panic disorder the attacks can weave into each other or overlap, causing what feels like a constant feeling of extended anxiety.

The symptoms of an attack include dizziness, trembling, hyperventilation and fear, and due to the potential negative social aspects such as embarrassment and social isolation, over a third of panic disorder sufferers also have agoraphobia.

Scientific knowledge on the causes of panic disorder is not conclusive there are many factors to consider, both physiological and psychological. Panic disorder has been found to run through families, but whether this is a genetic or a social phenomenon is unclear. Research into conditions such as bipolar disorder or alcoholism show there is a potential for someone to be more pre-disposed to panic disorder based on their genes.

Other psychologists believe an over-protective parenting environment can be the main reason for panic disorder in later life and that the sufferer feels afraid or guilty when in any new situation because it potentially takes them further away from their parents.

Some researchers have found those suffering from panic disorder may have a reduced production of a regulatory chemical that controls our fight or flight' behavior. It has been suggested that those who suffer from panic disorder are in an almost constant state of fight or flight'. Drugs have been manufactured that have been shown to successfully counter this problem.

There is perhaps a stronger link to psychological factors though stressful life situations, changes in environment or physical illnesses are common initial triggers of panic attacks, in those who have never suffered from anxiety before. Taking on a large amount of stressful responsibilities can also cause panic attacks to begin.

If a person believes they may be suffering from a panic disorder, they should seek medical help as soon as possible, as it is shown that the earlier a sufferer seeks help, the faster the recovery.

Do I Have A Panic Disorder

By: Elizabeth Hayes

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