Panic DisorderPanic AttacksA panic disorder is characterized by periodic episodes of intense fear that are accompanied by a host of physical symptoms. These episodes can strike at any time of the day and night and often come on without any prior warning. The fear that accompanies the attack is usually unwarranted or completely out of proportion to the current situation. The physical symptoms of these episodes are very real and can be extremely intense, leading some individuals to fear they are losing their minds or dying.Although the attacks themselves are not life threatening, they can be terrifying to the person who experiences them. The fear of the next attack can lead some to avoid social situations that might trigger anxiety symptoms. There can also be accompanying conditions to this disorder, such as depression, substance abuse or phobias. This can wreak havoc with a person's daily life and lead many to seek treatment for their disorder. Symptoms of Panic DisorderRecurring attacks are the primary symptom of an anxiety attack. These attacks can be characterized by:• Rapid heart rate or a pounding heart • Shortness of breath, chest pain or difficulty breathing • Sweating, shaking and nausea • Light-headedness or dizziness • An overwhelming fear or dread • Tingling in the fingers and toes • Chills or hot flashes • Feeling that you are going to lose your mind or even die 
These symptoms are typical of the "flight or fight" response that most of us experience during a particularly stressful event. However, those suffering from a panic attack will experience these symptoms with no prior warning or reason. Treatment of Panic DisorderThere are a number of options in treatment for this disorder, including a variety of therapies. In many cases, a combination of treatments and lifestyle changes are the best approach to keeping symptoms under control.Psychotherapy choices include behavioral and cognitive therapy. Cognitive therapy will help a patient identify the triggers for the attacks and work to disassociate the trigger from the attack itself. Behavioral therapy is also used for treatment of phobias, and involves exposure to the symptoms of an attack so a patient can learn to control them more effectively and ward off a full blown attack. Lifestyle changes to treat panic attacks might include a regular exercise program that can alleviate anxiety symptoms. Since sufficient sleep is an important component of stress management, patients may also be instructed to get enough shut eye at night. Relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga, and avoidance of stimulants like caffeine and nicotine can also help keep anxiety symptoms at bay. Combining a number of these treatments is often the best course of action for patients suffering from panic disorder. Return From Panic Disorder To Anxiety Disorders
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