signs and symptoms
Can panic attacks occur without an obvious trigger or warning?
yes, they can occur spontaneously without a clear cause
What environmental factors can increase the risk of developing panic disorder?
major life stress or life changes (e.g. death of a loved one, job loss), traumatic events, substance abuse etc
Do genetics play a role in the development of panic disorder?
yes, having a family member with panic disorder or other anxiety-related conditions can increase your risk due to genetic predisposition
What are some physical symptoms associated with panic disorders? (at least 5)
rapid heart rate, sweating, shaking, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, chills, and hot flashes
Is there a link between childhood trauma and the development of panic disorder in adulthood?
experiencing trauma, neglect, or abuse in childhood can increase the risk of panic disorder later in life
What substances/medications can increase the risk of panic disorders?
substance use or withdrawal from drugs e.g. alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, or stimulants (cocaine, amphetamines). certain medications e.g. used to treat asthma or heart conditions, may also cause symptoms similar to panic attacks
What psychological symptoms are associated with a panic disorder? (at least 5)
sense of impending doom, excessive worry about future attacks, fear of losing control or "going crazy", hypervigilance, avoidance behaviours, depression, hopelessness, irritability, depersonalisation
List some mental health conditions that contribute to risk of developing panic disorder
GAD, depression, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, phobias e.g. agoraphobia
Are there any medical conditions that can increase the likelihood of experiencing panic attacks?
heart problems (e.g. arrhythmias), respiratory disorders (e.g. asthma), and hyperthyroidism can contribute to panic attacks
How long do panic attacks typically last?
typically 5-20 mins, though some can last up an 1 hour
What neurotransmitter imbalance could cause panic disorders?
serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine, GABA
How does gender influence the risk of panic disorder?
Women are more likely than men to develop panic disorder (potentially due to hormonal differences, stress responses, or sociocultural factor)
What are some less common symptoms that people with panic disorders may experience?
tingling or numbness, gastrointestinal issues, sensation of choking
What are the main brain regions involved in panic disorder?
amygdala, prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, brainstem
How might caffeine use contribute to panic disorders?
Caffeine is a stimulant, mimic symptoms of a panic attack, triggering actual attacks. Caffeine increases cortisol production, overtime can contribute to chronic anxiety. Caffeine interferes with sleep; sleep deprivation is linked to panic attacks.