Panic Disorders

What is a panic disorder?

A panic disorder is a condition that causes your child to experience episodes of intense discomfort or fear, even when there’s no cause for it. While anyone can develop a panic disorder at any point in life, the condition often develops in early adolescence or may start in childhood.

These intense feelings are known as a panic attack and can last for anywhere from just a few minutes to several hours at a time. The attacks can quickly overwhelm your child and develop without any warning signs.

What are the symptoms of a panic attack?

Intense feelings of worry or anxiousness are a hallmark of a panic attack. Your child may also experience symptoms like:

• Dizziness
• Physical trembling
• Racing heartbeat
• Shortness of breath

Your child may develop additional fears related to the attack and have difficulties distinguishing reality.

Symptoms of a panic disorder may be severe enough to disrupt your child’s life at home, at school, and in social situations. Your child may begin to isolate themselves from others or show changes in their behaviors as a result of their chronic fears.

How is a panic disorder diagnosed?

Dr. Elmashat and Dr. Elatrozy may first request blood work to determine if panic symptoms are related to an underlying medical condition.

The physicians also discuss fears and anxieties with your child to better understand what may be triggering symptoms. If there’s a history of panic disorders or other mental health issues in your family, Dr. Elmashat and Dr. Elatrozy also review the details with you during your consultation.

What treatments are available for a panic disorder?

Treatment for a panic disorder may require medications, especially if symptoms interfere with your child’s life at school and at home. In combination with medications, Dr. Elmashat and Dr. Elatrozy recommends talk therapy on an individual basis with your child and may suggest family therapy.

The goal of treatment is to ease the severity of symptoms and help your child better manage their fears and triggers. Dr. Elatrozy and Dr. Elmashat create a custom treatment plan to address your child’s specific needs and continually monitor the effectiveness of treatment.

If you have concerns about your child’s struggle with fear and anxiety, schedule a consultation today online or by phone.