4 Ways to Understand Panic Disorders

1. Speak With Your Doctor or ER Nurse About Panic Disorders

Visit your doctor or emergency room. You're probably headed there anyway if you're having your first panic attack. You may not have been planning a trip to the doctor, but when your heart is racing out of control due to anxiety, it may take an EKG to calm your frayed nerves. Have your doctor check your heart and your overall health to make sure you're physically fit. When the anxiety is over, ask for advice on coping with panic disorders.

2. Identify Your Triggers

Understand the symptoms and warning signs, so you can resolve anxiety the moment it rears its ugly head. The next time you have a panic attack, notice the series of events that occurred just prior to feelings of anxiety. Feelings of panic are often triggered by fears of certain events, activities or even people. Common anxiety triggers include social activities, driving on the freeway and public speaking. Excessive alcohol, nicotine or caffeine consumption may also trigger panic attacks in some people. Once you have a panic attack, your mind records the feelings and physical sensations. The next time you enter a similar situation, you may be triggered to feel anxiety all over again.

3. Learn What to Expect From an Anxious Episode

The physical symptoms of panic disorder manifest in the mind, which means you may be able to learn how to control them. It's important to understand and identify your response to irrational fear, so you know you're not in any real danger. Panic attacks usually don't last for longer than 20 minutes. Common symptoms of anxiety include shortness of breath, a rapid heart rate, chest pain, sweating and a tingling sensation in the limbs.

4. When to Seek Help for a Panic Disorder

If you start experiencing panic attacks on a regular basis, you may have developed a panic disorder. If you start changing your regular routine to avoid certain situations, it's best to speak with a family doctor or counselor about treatment options. Many people who experience frequent panic attacks have a condition called agoraphobia, which is often brought on by a fear of not being able to escape from a situation or space. One of the most troubling aspects of agoraphobia is the cycle of panic that develops--the mere thought of having a panic attack is enough to start a panic attack.