Panic Disorder Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners in Frisco, TX

Understanding Panic Disorder

Panic disorder affects approximately 6 million American adults and is highly treatable. Panic attacks involve sudden surges of intense fear with physical symptoms — racing heart, shortness of breath, dizziness — that peak within minutes. CBT with interoceptive exposure is the most effective treatment, with SSRIs and benzodiazepines (short-term) as medication options. Most patients achieve significant improvement within 12–16 weeks of treatment.

Common Symptoms

• •Sudden, unexpected panic attacks
• •Racing heart, chest pain, shortness of breath during attacks
• •Intense fear of losing control or dying
• •Persistent worry about future attacks
• •Avoidance of places associated with panic
• •Agoraphobia in severe cases