A patient with panic disorder has periods of severe anxiety, causing her to avoid certain situations and worry about the next panic attack. The Merck Manual Home Edition states that some panic disorder patients recover without medication or therapy, though these treatments can help prevent panic attacks in the future. Certain lifestyle changes can also reduce the occurrence of panic attacks.
Medications
The Merck Manual Home Edition states that medication can prevent or reduce panic symptoms. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), like citalopram, are the preferred medication for panic disorder. The Mayo Clinic adds that other antidepressants, like serotonin and norepinephrine (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) can be prescribed; examples include duloxetine (SNRI), desipramine (tricyclic antidepressant) and phenelzine (MAOI). Benzodiazepines, like alprazolam, are a short term medication option for panic disorder. The patient may need to use a combination of medications, or try a couple before finding the most effective one.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) teaches the patient not to avoid causes of the panic attacks, according to the Merck Manual Home Edition. The patient also learns how to recognize that the triggers are unfounded, and techniques for relaxing when faced with a trigger, such as counted breathing. Helpguide.org adds that CBT may also incorporate exposure therapy, in which the patient is "exposed to the physical sensations of panic in a safe and controlled environment, giving [him] the opportunity to learn healthier ways of coping."
Lifestyle Changes
Certain activities can also reduce the number of panic attacks a patient has, according to Helpguide.org. For example, the patient should avoid smoking, caffeine and medication that contains stimulants, as these can make anxiety symptoms worse. When she feels a panic attack coming on, the patient should practice controlled breathing and relaxation techniques, such as yoga and mediation.
