Understanding Panic and Anxiety Disorder

Anxiety is a perfectly normal and, in fact, necessary human emotion, but for those coping with any type of panic or anxiety disorder, the intensity of the anxiety they experience falls well outside the normal range.

At one time or another we have all felt the effects of normal anxiety.  The “butterflies” in our stomach before taking an important exam, the racing heartbeat and sweaty palms we experience just before delivering a big speech, or the all out fear caused by something that threatens our safety serve as warning signals of impending stress or danger.  Typically, once the stressful event passes, so too does the anxiety and our emotional equilibrium is reestablished.  Now imagine a scenario in which the emotional balance fails to return to its previous state—a scenario in which the anxiety remains long after the tense or dangerous situation has passed.  This is what it feels like to suffer from panic and anxiety disorder.

What is Panic and Anxiety Disorder?

Anxiety disorder is a general term that encompasses several different types of anxiety-related conditions, the two most prevalent being Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Panic Disorder.  Both conditions share many of the same symptoms, but they differ in terms of the duration, severity and frequency of the accompanying attacks.

Panic disorder is characterized by panic attacks.  These attacks usually occur suddenly and without warning, and while they are usually brief in duration (usually 10 minutes or so) the fear and troublesome physical symptoms they produce can be quite severe.

Generalized anxiety disorder, much like the name implies, is characterized by general and pervasive feelings of fear, unease or dread.  While the anxiety symptoms are not as pronounced as those associated with panic disorder, they tend to persist longer and in some cases never relent whatsoever.  Many people—up to 40 percent—suffering from generalized anxiety disorder will experience panic attacks as well.

Panic and Anxiety Disorder:  The Causes and Symptoms

While the exact cause of anxiety and panic disorder is unknown, there are a few factors that may play a role.  Many doctors believe that the condition is caused by an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain, and will use medication therapy to help restore the correct balance.  Other factors may include:

•    Family history of anxiety or depression
•    Stress
•    Major life changes, such as a job promotion or a change of residency
•    Loss of a loved one
•    Poor eating habits or a sedentary lifestyle
•    Drugs or alcohol

There are many different symptoms associated with panic and anxiety disorder, and while not all of these will be present in every single case, some of the following usually occur in concert with each other:

•    Excessive and irrational fear or worry
•    Restlessness
•    Difficulty Sleeping
•    Feeling disconnected
•    Irrational fear of death or illness
•    Sweating
•    Irritability
•    Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
•    Shortness of breath
•    Muscle tension and fatigue
•    Difficulty concentrating
•    Headaches
•    Trembling
•    Easily startled

In some cases, relaxation and breathing techniques are sufficient to bring anxiety symptoms under control, but many times, when symptoms are severe, medication and therapy may be the best solution.  If you are struggling with problem anxiety symptoms which are interfering with your ability to function normally and meet everyday responsibilities, check with a doctor or mental health professional for all your available treatment options.  Anxiety is serious but it doesn’t have to be a life sentence.