Panic Attacks Flashcards
What is a carpopedal spasm?
A spasm affecting the hands and feet, often associated with electrolyte imbalances.
Commonly seen in conditions like hypocalcemia or hypomagnesemia.
What symptoms are associated with panic attacks?
Dizziness, circumoral paraesthesia, tingling, palpitations, sweating, tremors, and shortness of breath.
Symptoms can develop rapidly and are often accompanied by intense fear.
What is the typical duration of symptoms during a panic attack?
Symptoms peak around 10 minutes and gradually resolve over the next 20 minutes.
True or False: Panic attacks can involve sharp or stabbing chest pain.
True.
Fill in the blank: Panic attacks are characterized by periods of intense _______.
fear.
What are the extreme manifestations of panic attacks?
A patient feels that he is going to die from cardiac or respiratory problems, experiencing sudden severe sharp stabbing chest pain that may mimic myocardial infarction (MI)
Patients often present with tachycardia (↑HR) and tachypnea (↑RR)
What causes tingling during hyperventilation in panic attacks?
Hyperventilation leads to washout of CO2, resulting in respiratory alkalosis and hypocalcemia (low ionic Ca²⁺), which causes tingling
This is a physiological response to the changes in blood chemistry during panic
What investigations are important to rule out secondary causes of tachycardia, chest pain, or shortness of breath?
ECG, O2 Saturation, Blood glucose
These investigations help confirm or rule out other medical conditions
What additional investigations may be required if symptoms do not settle in a few minutes?
CXR (chest X-ray)
This is to check for any underlying respiratory or cardiac issues
What is the initial management of panic attacks?
Simple breathing exercises such as breathing through the nose, using a paper bag, slowing down breathing, and providing reassurance
These methods can help alleviate symptoms without medication
What medications are used in the management of severe and acute panic attacks?
Benzodiazepines and Propranolol (if no asthma)
Beta-blockers are contraindicated in patients with asthma
What is the purpose of using Propranolol before a panic attack?
To help manage symptoms in an upcoming event
This beta-blocker can reduce physical symptoms of anxiety
Fill in the blank: Patients experiencing panic attacks are usually _______.
tachycardic and tachypnic
This indicates increased heart rate and respiratory rate
True or False: Respiratory alkalosis during a panic attack can lead to tingling sensations.
True
The physiological changes in blood chemistry contribute to this symptom
What are SSRIs?
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
Examples include Citalopram, Fluoxetine, and Sertraline.
