If you’ve ever experienced intense fear and dread, even though you are not in danger, you may be familiar with panic attacks. These sudden episodes can be debilitating, leaving people feeling helpless and unable to cope. To make matters worse, many people don’t realize they can experience these symptoms without a panic disorder. It is possible to have panic attacks without having a panic disorder. However, it is essential to understand what a panic disorder is and the differences between panic attacks with and without panic disorder.
True Life Center provides options in San Diego, California, for panic disorder treatment. We can offer you, or a loved one more information about panic disorder treatment, panic attacks, and panic attacks without a panic disorder. Call us today at 866.420.1792 to learn more about the resources available to you.
What Are Panic Attacks?
A panic attack is an episode that lasts anywhere from five minutes to 20 minutes, where the person experiences extreme fear or discomfort. The person will often feel like something bad is about to happen or is happening right now, even when there isn’t any real danger present. Symptoms of a panic attack include:
- Fast heart rate
- Rapid breathing
- Shaking or trembling
- Chest pain or tightness
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Sweating and chills
- Nausea or stomach pain
- Numbness or tingling sensations in the body parts, such as fingers and toes
A better understanding of a panic attack and its symptoms can help you differentiate between panic attacks and panic disorders.
Symptoms of a Panic Disorder
Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder that can be a severe and life-altering condition. It causes panic attacks, which are intensely adverse physical and psychological reactions to fear or panic. Those experiencing panic disorder can feel fearful of panic attacks even when there’s nothing to fear, making it incredibly difficult to live with the condition. Symptoms of panic disorder include:
- Feeling powerless
- Having difficulty breathing
- Nausea or chest pain
- Dizziness
- Increased heart rate and sweating or shaking
People can suffer panic attacks without having panic disorder. Still, these are typically caused by extreme stress or intense feelings of dread in acute situations like a car crash or an unexpectedly harrowing experience. If you have a panic disorder, it’s important to seek help from a medical professional who can refer you for suitable medical treatment, including therapy.
How Can Panic Disorder Treatment Help?
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) effectively treats anxiety-related disorders such as panic disorders. CBT can help a patient identify and change negative thought patterns associated with the condition, leading to positive behavioral outcomes. Medication may also be prescribed depending on the severity of your condition, but this should always be discussed with your doctor before taking any medication yourself.
If you’re regularly experiencing panic attacks or believe you might have a panic disorder, seeking help from a medical professional is important. At True Life Center, we have experienced specialists who offer panic disorder treatment and other resources to help you manage your symptoms.
How to Find Treatment for a Panic Attack in San Diego, CA
If you or someone you know is experiencing panic attacks in the San Diego area, there are many options for treatment. The first priority should always be to speak with a doctor to get an accurate diagnosis. That being said, panic attacks can occur without having a panic disorder. Simple coping mechanisms may do the trick if your panic attacks aren’t chronic and don’t interfere with day-to-day life. You can find tips online, such as relaxation techniques, yoga and meditation, and finding meaningful activities to distract yourself. Every person is different, so consider exploring all these options until you find the one that works best for you.
Discover True Life Center’s Panic Disorder Treatment in California
Anxiety-related disorders such as panic disorders are common but treatable conditions that should not be taken lightly, especially if you suspect that you might have one. It is essential to recognize the signs early on so that appropriate treatment can be sought to reduce any disruption in daily life activities caused by the condition itself. If you think you might have a panic disorder, please don’t hesitate to reach out for help today.
True Life Center in San Diego, California, offers panic disorder treatment tailored to each patient’s needs. Our experienced professionals will work with you to create a comprehensive treatment plan, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication management, and lifestyle changes designed to help alleviate panic attacks and symptoms. Contact us today at 866.420.1792 for more information on how we can help you find relief from panic attacks.
