Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder - When To Call a Doctor
SYMPTOMS & TREATMENTS
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Call your doctor if you experience:
- Attacks of intense fear or anxiety that seem to come on without a reason.
- A panic attack or worry that you will have another one and your worrying interferes with your ability to do your daily activities.
- Occasional physical symptoms (such as shortness of breath and chest pain) and you are not sure what is causing them.
Watchful Waiting
It can be difficult to tell the difference between the symptoms of a panic attack (such as shortness of breath and chest pain) and the symptoms of a heart attack or another serious medical problem. If you have symptoms of a panic attack, be sure to get immediate medical care so that other medical conditions can be ruled out.
Who To See
The following health professionals can diagnose panic attacks and may work together with other health professionals to treat panic attacks and panic disorder:
- Emergency medicine specialist
- Family medicine physician
- General practitioner
- Physician assistant
- Nurse practitioner
Treatment for panic attacks and panic disorder may also be provided by a:
Many community mental health centers, hospital outpatient clinics, and family service agencies have treatment programs for people with panic disorder.
To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: September 15, 2010 |
| Medical Review: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry | |
1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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