Panic Attacks

When your heart races, you can’t catch your breath, and you feel like something terrible is about to happen, you might be experiencing a panic attack. At Silver Lining Psychiatry and Wellness in Chandler, Arizona, Chrissy McLaughlin, PMHNP-BC, provides medication management to help reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks. She can also connect you with therapy providers who offer specialized coping strategies. Text the office today to schedule your consultation or book online.

What is a panic attack?

A panic attack floods your body with intense fear and physical reactions within just a few minutes. Even when you’re completely safe, your nervous system reacts like you’re facing immediate danger. These episodes can make you feel like you’re having a heart attack or losing control, but they’re actually your body’s normal stress response being triggered inappropriately.

Panic attacks can happen anywhere — at work, while driving, or even when you’re relaxing at home. They often seem to come out of nowhere, making them even more frightening and unpredictable.

How do I know if I’m having a panic attack?

A panic attack’s physical and emotional symptoms feel very real and intense. Common signs include:

• Racing or pounding heart
  
• Sweating or hot flashes
  
• Trembling or shaking
  
• Shortness of breath or feeling smothered
  
• Chest pain or tightness
  
• Nausea or stomach upset
  
• Dizziness or feeling faint
  
• Fear of losing control or going crazy
  
• Fear of dying
  

These symptoms usually peak within 10 minutes, though they can feel much longer when you’re experiencing them.

What causes panic attacks?

Several factors can increase your risk of developing panic attacks, such as:

• Stress and life changes — Major transitions, work pressure, or relationship problems can trigger your first panic attack or make them more frequent.
  
• Family history — You’re more likely to have panic attacks if your parents or siblings experience them, though it’s not guaranteed you will.
  
• Medical conditions — Thyroid problems, heart conditions, or breathing disorders can sometimes make you more sensitive to panic attacks.
  
• Substance use — Caffeine, alcohol, or certain medications can trigger panic attack symptoms.
  

How are panic attacks treated?

At Silver Lining Psychiatry and Wellness, panic attack care focuses on medication management to help reduce the frequency and severity of episodes. Chrissy works with you to find the right prescription plan to stabilize symptoms and improve quality of life, and she can refer you to therapy providers who specialize in panic disorder and coping techniques.

With the right medical care and support, panic attacks can become less frequent and less disruptive.

Contact Silver Lining Psychiatry and Wellness to learn more about panic attack medication management. Text or schedule your appointment online today.