Panic Disorder: Understanding and Treating Recurrent Panic Attacks

About 6 million Americans live with panic disorder—experiencing unexpected, terrifying panic attacks that can strike without warning. At Next Step Psychiatry in Lilburn, we help patients throughout Gwinnett County break free from the cycle of panic.

What Is Panic Disorder?

Panic disorder involves recurring, unexpected panic attacks followed by at least one month of persistent worry about having more attacks or changing behavior to avoid them. The fear of panic attacks can become as debilitating as the attacks themselves.

Recognizing Panic Attacks

Panic attacks involve four or more of these symptoms peaking within minutes:

• Rapid or pounding heartbeat
• Sweating, trembling, or shaking
• Shortness of breath or feeling smothered
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Nausea or stomach distress
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Chills or hot flashes
• Numbness or tingling
• Feeling of unreality or detachment
• Fear of losing control or "going crazy"
• Fear of dying

How We Treat Panic Disorder

Medication

SSRIs and SNRIs are first-line treatments, helping to prevent panic attacks from occurring. Other options include:

• Tricyclic antidepressants
• Benzodiazepines (for short-term or acute use)

Psychotherapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps you understand your panic triggers and change the thought patterns that fuel panic. Exposure therapy gradually introduces you to panic sensations in a controlled way, reducing their power over time.

Life After Panic Disorder

With proper treatment, most people with panic disorder significantly reduce or eliminate their panic attacks. You don't have to live in fear of the next attack. Our team at Next Step Psychiatry can help you take back control.