Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder - When To Call a Doctor
Call your doctor if you have:
- Attacks of intense fear or anxiety that seem to come on without a reason.
- A panic attack or worry that you will have another one, and your worrying interferes with your ability to do your daily activities.
- Occasional physical symptoms (such as shortness of breath and chest pain), and you are not sure what is causing them.
Watchful Waiting
It can be hard to tell the difference between the symptoms of a panic attack (such as shortness of breath and chest pain) and the symptoms of a heart attack or another serious medical problem. If you have symptoms of a panic attack, be sure to get medical care right away so that other medical conditions can be ruled out.
Understanding Phobias -- the Basics
A phobic person understands that the fear is excessive or groundless. But the effort to resist it only brings more anxiety. Phobias often begin in childhood and are irrational and disabling fears that produce a compelling desire to avoid the dreaded object or situation. Specific phobias are the most common -- involving things such as germs, bugs, school, dentists, driving, water, balloons, snakes, high places (acrophobia), and enclosed spaces (claustrophobia). The fear is usually not of the object...
Read the Understanding Phobias -- the Basics article > >
Who To See
The following health professionals can diagnose panic attacks. They may work together with other health professionals to treat panic attacks and panic disorder:
- Emergency medicine specialist
- Family medicine physician
- General practitioner
- Physician assistant
- Nurse practitioner
Treatment for panic attacks and panic disorder may also be provided by a:
Many community mental health centers, hospital outpatient clinics, and family service agencies have treatment programs for people with panic disorder.
To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder Topics
Today in Anxiety Disorders
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
©2005-2013 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. See additional information.