Panic Disorders

 

What is Panic Disorder?

Panic disorder is an anxiety condition characterized by recurrent, unexpected, and extreme panic. Panic attacks are sudden and intense episodes of fear or discomfort often accompanied by physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, sweating, shaking, shortness of breath, chest pain or discomfort, nausea, dizziness, and fear of losing control or dying.

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People with panic disorder often experience persistent anxiety about future attacks. This condition can lead to avoidance behaviors and interfere with daily life. Through clinical interviews and symptom assessments, mental health professionals diagnose and treat the disorder using psychotherapy, medication, or both.

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What causes Panic Disorder?

The direct cause of panic disorder is unknown, but researchers believe a combination of factors may contribute to its development. These factors include genetics, brain chemistry, medical conditions, cognitive elements, and environmental components.

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Imbalances in neurotransmitters, namely serotonin, norepinephrine, and GABA, have been associated with panic disorder. Certain medical conditions have also been linked, including hyperthyroidism and mitral valve prolapse. Additionally, cognitive and environmental factors, such as unexpected events and negative thinking, can contribute to the illness.

 

What are symptoms of Panic Disorder?

Panic disorder symptoms can be distressing and significantly impact physical and mental well-being. Common symptoms of the condition are sudden and intense feelings of fear or panic, rapid heartbeat, palpitations, sweating, trembling, and difficulty breathing.

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Other symptoms associated with the disorder include dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, stomach discomfort, chest pain, fear of dying, numbness or tingling sensations, and fear of losing control.

 

How is Panic Disorder treated?

Treatment for panic disorder often involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes.

Anti-anxiety medications and antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and benzodiazepines, are often used to treat panic disorder. These medications can help alleviate symptoms of panic attacks and reduce anxiety and depression.

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Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, is a type of psychotherapy that helps identify and change negative thought patterns contributing to panic attacks. Exposure therapy is a form of psychotherapy used to confront and overcome fears.

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Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, relaxation techniques, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine can help reduce the frequency and severity of panic attacks.

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How does Panic Disorder affect brain wellness?

Panic disorders can have significant effects on brain wellness. Chronic anxiety and panic attacks can change brain chemistry and structure, including alterations in neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and GABA. These changes can cause various symptoms, such as memory and attention issues, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.

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Studies indicate abnormalities in multiple brain regions, including the amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex, are caused by panic disorder. These regions are involved in regulating emotions, memory, and decision-making. Functional changes in these areas can contribute to the development and reoccurrence of the condition.

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Additionally, chronic stress and anxiety can reduce the size of the hippocampus, which is critical for learning and memory. Prolonged activation of the stress response system can also damage neurons in the brain, impairing cognitive function and increasing the risk of developing other mental health conditions such as depression.

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How can Brain Frequency™ help?

The Brain Frequency™ AI system is an innovative therapeutic approach to improving brain health and wellness. We use proprietary science-based technology to promote optimal brain functioning across mental, emotional, physical, and social domains. Our diagnostic technology and individualized treatment protocols help decrease or eliminate trauma-related symptoms and various mental health disorders.

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The Brain Frequency™ 3 Step Treatment Process consists of; first, performing a Baseline EEG and completing Psychometric Assessments; second, conducting a Brain Frequency Consultation; and third, Initiating Treatment.

An Electroencephalogram (EEG) analyzes brain waves and produces a brain map identifying current and optimal frequencies in 19 areas of the brain. Based on the individualized brain map, Brain Frequency™ will determine possible diagnoses of various mental health disorders or brain trauma for the provider to consider during treatment. Brain Frequency™ AI software provides clinicians with an "Approval Ready" treatment plan using personalized protocols based on each patient's needs.

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Those suffering from symptoms of panic disorder can efficiently and effectively improve their brain health and wellness by using the Brain Frequency™ AI system. Our innovative system drastically reduces the time needed to properly diagnose and construct treatment plans leading to a faster recovery and greater quality of life.

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RESOURCES

 

Substance Abuse & Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/

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Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA): https://www.hrsa.gov/

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National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): https://www.nimh.nih.gov/

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Center For Disease Control & Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/

American Psychological Association (APA): https://www.apa.org/

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National Institutes of Health (NIH): https://www.nih.gov/

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National Suicide Prevention Line: https://988lifeline.org/

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National Library of Medicine: https://medlineplus.gov/

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Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/

 

WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/