Panic Attacks - When Do Your Panic Attacks Cross Over Into A Panic Disorder?

Panic Disorder is a distinct but related condition to panic attacks. These attacks are isolated instances of 4 or more of the below listed symptoms. Your attacks cross over into a panic disorder if:

1) you have had two or more attacks and

2) at least one of these attacks has been followed by an extended period of concern, one month or more of having a repeat episode. The second requirement is crucial to a panic disorder diagnosis.

 Here are some of the symptoms sufferers will experience:

• Problems breathing
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Chest pain
• Sweating
• Choking
• Shaking
• Numbness
• Nausea
• Disorientation
• Hot flashes or chills
• Fear of dying
• Fear of going crazy
• Feeling detached from your body

Some people having attacks, are disturbed by them but then can resume their normal functioning, without too much worry over another attack. A panic disorder diagnosis does not apply to single attack sufferers or multiple attack sufferers who do not have extended anxiety about another panic attack.    

It will usually require a doctor to diagnose your panic disorder. Whether you have isolated panic attacks or panic disorder, the sources of your condition are probably similar. However, for any kind of diagnosis, it is important to rule out physical problems. 
You want to make sure you rule out any of the physiological problems such as hypoglycemia, hyperthyroidism, and reaction to excess caffeine, withdrawal from alcohol, tranquilizers or sedatives among other conditions that could be causing your panic attacks.

Today, doctors are very aware of panic problems, their manifestations and their effects and they are more effectively able to diagnose and assist patients suffering from these conditions.  

Panic attacks are scary and first time sufferers should definitely make a trip to the emergency room. It is not a wasted visit! The symptoms that sufferers experience could also be the signs of a serious medical problem. Don´t let embarrassment or fear get in your way, find out what´s wrong with you.

If it is a panic attack, it´s not the end of the world because you can get help and more importantly help yourself.

Panic disorders are sometimes treated with prescription medication. Panic attacks can be reduced or blocked by taking antidepressants such as Paxil or minor tranquilizers such as Xanax. The problem with these medications, like many medications is that they create a dependency and when the sufferer stops taking them, the attacks tend to return, especially in the case of people taking tranquilizers. 

While these medications treat and prevent the symptoms they do not manage the underlying problems that are the source of your attacks. Many cases can best be helped without medication. You should take steps to reduce your stress and improve your physical health. This will increase your resistance to panic attacks.