Panic Attacks

About 2-3% of people in the United States have panic disorder. At My Psych Today in Katy, Texas, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Alaa Mhsen, PMHNP, helps you overcome extreme fear, panic, and shortness of breath caused by panic attacks. Schedule an evaluation with Alaa by calling the My Psych Today office or requesting a visit online today.  

What are panic attacks?

Panic attacks are sudden episodes of intense fear triggering physical reactions when there’s no real danger. They are often frightening or feel as if you’re having a heart attack. If you or a loved one suffers from panic disorder and terrifying panic attacks, see Alaa for treatments that help prevent them from occurring in the future and restore your quality of life.

What are the symptoms of panic attacks?

Panic attacks can cause:

• Trembling or shaking
• Racing or pounding heartbeat
• Sweating
• Shortness of breath
• Extreme fear
• Loss of control
• Sense of doom or danger
• Fear of death
• Chills or hot flashes
• Nausea
• Abdominal cramping
• Headaches
• Chest pain
• Dizziness or faintness

Some people have just one or two panic attacks throughout their lifetime, while others suffer from recurrent and unexpected attacks (panic disorder) that can become debilitating. 

What are the risk factors for panic attacks?

The cause of panic attacks isn’t known, but potential risk factors include:

• Family history of panic attacks
• Major stress 
• Traumatic life events
• Major life changes
• History of abuse
• Smoking
• Excessive caffeine intake
• Sensitive temperament
• Brain changes

Panic attacks are often triggered by specific situations, but they might appear without warning. They can lead to specific phobias, fear of driving, fear of leaving your home, and avoiding social situations. Panic disorder can cause depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol misuse, financial problems, and challenges at work, school, and in relationships. 

How are panic attacks diagnosed?

Alaa diagnoses panic disorder by discussing your symptoms, medical history, and severity and frequency of your panic attacks. He completes a psychiatric evaluation to screen for additional mental health concerns and determine how to best treat your condition.

How are panic attacks treated?

Treating panic disorder and panic attacks often consists of therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication management. Alaa may suggest cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or similar therapies to help you learn effective ways of overcoming or preventing panic attacks. Medications can minimize debilitating symptoms and ease anxiety or depression. 

It’s also helpful to eat nutritious foods, minimize stress, seek treatment for past trauma, join a support group, stay active, get enough sleep, and avoid alcohol, drugs, caffeine, and smoking. 

Schedule a visit with Alaa at My Psych Today by phone or online to help prevent or better manage panic attacks.