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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Ask Dr. K: Relieve panic attacks with therapy, medication

Anthony L. Komaroff Universal Uclick

DEAR DOCTOR K: I think I might be having panic attacks, but I’m not sure. What does a panic attack feel like?

DEAR READER: People who have never experienced a panic attack typically think it’s a mild feeling of nervousness. But in fact, it’s a lot more than that.

First of all, it usually starts very suddenly; it doesn’t slowly creep up on you. Second, it’s not mild. A panic attack causes a sudden wave of intense anxiety, apprehension, fearfulness or terror. Usually, you have a terrible sense of impending doom or of a looming catastrophe.

You may experience a sensation of smothering and a fear of going crazy or losing control. Physical symptoms may include shortness of breath, palpitations, sweating and chest pains. The symptoms are often so severe that you may believe you are having a heart attack.

A panic attack usually lasts five to 30 minutes, but it can continue for as long as several hours. Panic attacks typically occur during the day, but they can also rouse you from deep sleep.

While panic attacks may be triggered by stress, they also may start for no apparent reason. A panic attack can be a single, isolated event, or attacks may occur repeatedly. Repeated panic attacks are often triggered by a particular situation.

If you think you have experienced a panic attack, make an appointment with a mental health professional. He or she will likely recommend a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy and medication.

CBT is a type of psychotherapy. It has two parts. Cognitive therapy helps change patterns of thinking that may prevent you from overcoming your fears. Behavioral therapy helps change your reactions in situations that trigger anxiety.

Doctors often prescribe medications known as benzodiazepines for panic attacks. These drugs help you feel mentally and physically relaxed. They are used as needed to help prevent intense worry about having another attack or about the consequences of an attack. They can also be used to relieve symptoms during a panic attack.