Panic Disorder Flashcards
What is Panic Disorder?
Panic Disorder involves recurring unforeseen panic attacks, followed by at least a month of persistent worry about having another attack and concern about its consequences OR a significant change in behaviour related to the panic attacks.
Panic attacks are sudden periods of intense fear or discomfort.
What are the features of Panic Disorder according to DSM IV Classification?
An abrupt surge of intense fear or physical discomfort, reaching peak within a few minutes, plus at least 4 of the following:
* Palpitations, pounding heart, tachycardia
* Sweating
* Muscle trembling, shaking
* Shortness of breath, sensations of smothering
* Choking sensations
* Chest pain or discomfort
* Nausea, abdominal distress
* Dizzy, lightheaded, instability, feeling faint
* Derealization, depersonalization
* Fears of losing control or going crazy
* Fear of dying
* Numbness, tingling sensations
* Chills, hot flushes.
These symptoms must occur abruptly and peak within minutes.
What is a self-help approach for managing mild-moderate Panic Disorder?
Self-help based on CBT principles, support groups, exercise benefits, and reviewing progress appropriately based on individual circumstances (often every 4–8 weeks).
CBT stands for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
What is the recommended psychological therapy for managing moderate-severe Panic Disorder?
1-2 hours CBT sessions weekly over 4 months.
This structured approach helps patients manage symptoms effectively.
What is the first-line medication for moderate-severe Panic Disorder?
SSRIs such as citalopram, sertraline, paroxetine, and escitalopram. DO NOT OFFER fluoxetine.
SSRIs are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.
What is the second-line medication for moderate-severe Panic Disorder?
Tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine and clomipramine, with caution due to overdose potential.
Tricyclic antidepressants are older classes of antidepressants that can be effective but require careful monitoring.
What medications are contraindicated in Panic Disorder?
Benzodiazepines, sedating antihistamines, and antipsychotics.
These medications can lead to dependency or exacerbate symptoms.
Fill in the blank: Panic Disorder is characterized by ______ and persistent worry about future attacks.
recurring unforeseen panic attacks.
True or False: Psychological therapy is not recommended for managing Panic Disorder.
False.
Psychological therapy is a key component in the management of moderate-severe Panic Disorder.
