Panic Disorder

Panic Disorder

Panic Disorder

Panic Attack

PANIC ATTACK

• Sudden escalation and rapid crescendo peak of 4 or more symptoms (physical symptoms prominent)
• Panic can be
  • Spontaneous
  • situation predisposed
  • situation bound
• Can occur with any anxiety disorder and many other physical and mental disorders

Panic Disorder Definition

Panic Disorder

• Recurrent unexpected panic attacks and for a one month period or more of:
  • Persistent worry about having additional attacks
  • Worry about the implications of the attacks
  • Significant change in behavior because of the attacks

Symptoms of a Panic Attack

A Panic Attack is: A discrete period of intense fear in which 4 of the following Symptoms abruptly develop and peak within 10 minutes:

• Palpitations or rapid heart rate
• Sweating
• Trembling or shaking
• Shortness of breath
• Feeling of choking
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Nausea
• Chills or heat sensations
• Paresthesias
• Feeling dizzy or faint
• Derealization or depersonalization
• Fear of losing control or going crazy
• Fear of dying

Epidemiology of Panic Disorder

Panic disorder epidemiology

• 2-3% of general population; 5-10% of primary care patients ---Onset in teens or early 20’s
• Female: male 2-3:1

Panic Attack vs. Panic Disorder

Things to keep in mind

• A panic attack ≠ panic disorder
• Panic disorder often has a waxing and waning course

Comorbidity of Panic Disorder

Panic Disorder Comorbidity

• 50-60% have lifetime major depression
  • One third have current depression
• 20-25% have history substance dependence