Panic Disorder Specialist

What is panic disorder?

Panic disorder is defined by having repeated panic attacks. Though the panic attacks are often unexpected, they can be triggered by situations or things you fear.

If you have panic disorder, at least one of your panic attacks is followed by an intense fear of having another attack. This anxiety often makes you change your daily habits, going out of your way to avoid any situations that might trigger another attack.

What are the symptoms of panic disorder?

Recurrent panic attacks are the hallmark symptom of panic disorder, but the frequency and number of attacks vary for each person.

Panic attacks cause an intense fear that abruptly appears and quickly intensifies, with physical and psychological distress that reaches its peak within a few minutes.

During a panic attack, you’ll have at least four of these symptoms:

• Palpitations (pounding heart, fast heartbeat, chest tightness)
• Sweating
• Tunnel vision
• Feelings of doom/gloom
• Trembling or shaking
• Shortness of breath
• Sensation of choking
• Chest pain
• Nausea
• Dizziness or fainting
• Sensation of being detached from reality
• Fear of losing control
• Fear of dying
• Tingling or numbness
• Cold or hot sensations

The symptoms of a panic attack often mimic a heart attack.

How is panic disorder treated?

During your visit, Dr. Rybakov talks with you about your panic attacks and other times when you may feel anxious. Your evaluation for panic disorder may also include an assessment for other mental health conditions that often cause panic attacks.

Dr. Rybakov may prescribe anti-anxiety medications to relieve your symptoms when another panic attack occurs. But these medications are potentially addictive, and they can’t treat the reason for the anxiety that triggers your panic. That’s why therapy is needed to fully heal and overcome panic disorder. 

Cognitive behavioral therapy and exposure therapy are often used for treating panic disorder.

Cognitive behavioral therapy focuses on understanding the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. You learn ways to change your patterns of thinking to reduce anxiety and prevent panic attacks.

During exposure therapy, you confront your fears in a supportive and well-controlled environment. By facing your fears, you gradually learn to overcome the anxiety or cope with it.

Dr. Rybakov also specializes in treating the whole person, an approach that’s especially beneficial for panic disorder. Reducing your stress is essential for getting rid of panic attacks. 

Don’t put off seeking help for panic attacks or panic disorder. Book an appointment online or call Dr. Mark Rybakov, DO.