Panic Disorder Health Center

If you have been suffering panic attacks and are concerned you may have panic disorder, it is appropriate to visit a health care provider. The health care provider will perform a physical exam and ask you a series of questions regarding the panic attacks you have been experiencing. Most likely the health care provider will also perform a physical examination in order to ensure you are not suffering from a medical condition, which may be causing the panic attacks.

Family history can also play a role in panic attacks so the health care provider will want you to provide any family medical history. It is very important to answer all questions honestly. Panic disorder sometimes runs in families, but no one knows for sure why some people have it, while others don't.

If the health care provider has decided that you are not suffering from a medical or physical condition, he or she will attempt to gather information regarding the time and place of your panic attacks. Many panic attacks occur in certain situations, so the health care provider will attempt to isolate the specific characteristics that cause your panic attacks.

Researchers have found that several parts of the brain are involved in fear and anxiety. By learning more about fear and anxiety in the brain, scientists may be able to create better treatments.