Have you ever felt overwhelmed by an overwhelming wave of fear or anxiety for no apparent reason? If so, you may be familiar with the Panic Syndromea condition that affects millions of people around the world.
In this article, we will explore the main symptoms of this syndrome, how to identify them and, most importantly, what treatment options are available. Recognizing early signs and understanding treatment approaches can make all the difference for those dealing with this challenging condition.
It is worth noting that the information presented here is for informative purposes and does not replace medical consultation. It is always important to see a doctor first for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
How does panic syndrome occur?
Panic syndrome can manifest itself in different ways in different people, but it usually involves sudden and intense episodes of fear or anxiety, known as panic attacks.
These attacks can appear without warning and are accompanied by physical symptoms such as palpitations, sweating, tremors, shortness of breath, feelings of suffocation, hallucinations, weakness and hyperventilation.
Although the exact causes of panic disorder are not fully understood, genetic, biological, and environmental factors may play an important role. Excessive stress, emotional trauma and chemical imbalances in brain neurotransmitters can also contribute to the development of panic syndrome.
The important thing is to recognize the early signs, seek medical support and learn to deal with the symptoms to improve your quality of life.
What characterizes panic syndrome?
Panic syndrome is characterized by recurring and unexpected panic attacks in which a person experiences an intense feeling of fear or anxiety, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as palpitations, sweating, tremors, shortness of breath and a feeling of suffocation.
These attacks can occur for no apparent reason and can lead to persistent concern about the possibility of having new attacks, which can significantly affect the quality of life of those suffering from the syndrome.
What is the difference between a panic attack and panic disorder?
A panic attack is an isolated episode of intense fear or discomfort that reaches its peak within minutes and may be accompanied by physical symptoms such as shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, tremors, and a sense of imminent danger.
On the other hand, panic syndrome involves the repeated occurrence of panic attacks, along with persistent worry about the possibility of having more attacks and behavioral changes to avoid situations that may trigger the attacks.
Those who suffer from panic disorder often experience an anxiety curve, in which anxiety gradually increases until it reaches a peak during a panic attack, and then slowly subsides, leaving the person exhausted and emotionally drained after the episode.
What is the relationship between Panic Syndrome and other anxiety disorders?
Panic Syndrome is often associated with other anxiety disorders, such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
These disorders often share similar symptoms and can overlap, which makes diagnosis and treatment more challenging.
The comorbidity between Panic Syndrome and other anxiety disorders highlights the importance of an integrated approach in specialized treatment, which takes into account the different aspects of the patient’s mental well-being.
How to identify a panic syndrome?
Identifying panic syndrome can be challenging, as its symptoms can manifest differently in each person.
See a list of the main symptoms of panic syndrome:
Main symptoms of panic syndrome
- Sudden and recurring panic attacks;
- Feeling of intense fear or anxiety;
- Palpitations or tachycardia;
- Excessive sweating;
- Tremors or tingling sensation;
- Shortness of breath or feeling of suffocation;
- Dizziness or fainting;
- Chills or hot flashes;
- Fear of losing control or going crazy;
- Fear to die;
- Persistent worry about the possibility of having more attacks;
- Avoid situations that could trigger attacks;
- Hallucinations.
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it is important to seek medical help for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. At Conexa Saúde, you can obtain specialized medical and psychological support to deal with your problems and regain your quality of life.
How to act during a panic attack?
During a panic attack, it is essential to try to remain calm and adopt strategies to calm the mind and body. An effective technique is to practice deep, slow breathing, inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth, slowly, to help reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety.
Additionally, it is possible to use distraction techniques, such as counting objects around or reciting a reassuring phrase. One of the best ways to regain attention to the present is to have help from another person, at the time of crisis, to reorganize your thoughts and get back in control, interrupting the cycle of negative thoughts.
Try to respect the symptoms and understand when to see a psychiatrist. If possible, finding a calm, safe place to shelter until the crisis subsides can be helpful.
How to help someone who is having a panic attack?
If you are present when someone is having a panic attack, it is important to act calmly and empathetically. Remember that the person is going through a scary and uncomfortable experience and needs support.
Offer reassuring words and encourage her to breathe deeply and slowly. Draw the person’s full attention to you, and ask questions that bring them into the present, avoiding judging or minimizing the person’s feelings.
If the person feels they need medical assistance, help them seek professional help. Being present and showing empathy can make a big difference to someone experiencing a panic attack.
What can lead to panic syndrome?
Panic Syndrome can be triggered by a combination of genetic, biological, psychological and environmental factors. Although there is no known specific cause, some conditions and events can increase the risk of developing the syndrome.
Significant stressors such as emotional trauma, traumatic events, loss of a loved one, major life changes, chronic stress or burnout can trigger panic attacks in predisposed people.
Excessive caffeine consumption, smoking and substance abuse can also increase the risk of developing panic syndrome. It is important to understand that panic syndrome is a complex and multifaceted condition, and the combination of different factors can contribute to its development.
Treatments for panic syndrome
There are several ways to treat panic syndrome, including types of therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), medications and relaxation techniques.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is often considered the treatment of choice because it helps individuals understand and modify the patterns of thinking and behavior that contribute to panic attacks.
Medications, such as antidepressants and benzodiazepines, may also be prescribed to help reduce panic disorder symptoms. Treatment time may vary from person to person, but generally involves regular therapy sessions and continued use of medication, as advised by a doctor.
As for prevention, although it is not possible to completely avoid panic syndrome, some stress management and self-care strategies, such as regular exercise, adequate sleep, relaxation techniques and avoiding excessive consumption of caffeine and psychoactive substances, can help to reduce the risk of developing panic attacks.
How to diagnose panic syndrome?
Diagnosis usually requires a thorough evaluation by a qualified mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist. It is important to seek expert help when experiencing symptoms of anxiety or panic attacks to obtain an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
During the assessment, the mental health professional will conduct an in-depth interview to assess the symptoms and severity of the condition, as well as rule out other possible causes of the symptoms.
Additional tests, such as physical exams and laboratory tests, may be ordered to rule out other medical conditions.
Seeking help from specialists, such as psychiatrists, clinical psychologists or therapists, is essential to receive the necessary support and begin appropriate treatment for panic syndrome.
The benefits of telemedicine have proven to be an effective tool for accelerating and facilitating access to mental health care, especially during periods when people do not feel comfortable leaving home or facing crowded places.
With teleconsultation, it is possible to carry out assessments and diagnoses, as well as receive guidance and therapeutic support, through online consultations remotely and conveniently. Therefore, if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of Panic Disorder, do not hesitate to seek professional help through telemedicine.
Discover Conexa Saúde services today and take the first step towards caring for your mental health.
Image credits: Rudzhan Nagiev em iStock
