What is panic disorder?

Panic disorder causes episodes of sudden, intense fear (panic attack), even when there’s no threat or danger to yourself.

The underlying cause of panic disorder isn’t well understood, but your risk for the condition can increase due to genetics or changes in your brain function. Major stress or a sensitive temperament may also make you prone to panic attacks.

Pure Psychiatry of Michigan offers comprehensive care for panic disorder, including diagnostic evaluations and customized treatment plans. They take an empathetic approach to helping you manage your symptoms and the negative impact they can have on your life.

When should I seek medical care for panic disorder?

You should schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Pure Psychiatry of Michigan if you have any symptoms of a panic disorder that you can’t manage on your own.

During a panic attack, you may feel like you’re losing control. You may experience an impending sense of doom or a detachment from your reality. Many people also experience physical symptoms like:

• Sweating

• Dizziness

• Pounding heart

• Shaking or trembling

• Shortness of breath

These symptoms are often confused for a heart attack and cause you to seek emergency medical care.

Another side effect of panic disorder you may experience is the intense fear of having another attack, which may cause you to isolate yourself from other people, places, or situations that may cause panic.

The medical team at Pure Psychiatry of Michigan evaluates your symptoms and can determine what treatments you need to manage a panic disorder.

How is panic disorder treated?

Treatment for panic disorder typically involves a combination of psychotherapy and medications.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy (talk therapy) helps you learn how to cope with panic attacks. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that helps you recognize thought patterns and behaviors associated with panic attacks so you can overcome your fear.

Medications

Antidepressants and antianxiety medications relieve symptoms of panic attacks when they occur. The team monitors your use of medications and your treatment progress through regular follow-up appointments and therapy sessions.

Call Pure Psychiatry of Michigan to schedule a diagnostic evaluation for panic disorder symptoms or book an appointment online today.