Articles Index
Shortness of Breath: Panic Disorder and Hyperventilation
Many people with panic disorder experience shortness of breath or sensations that they are smothering. Most people describe this as a feeling that they can’t get enough air into their lungs. Hyperventilation or over breathing may be contributing to your frightening symtpoms. Learn what you can do to breath easier.
Anticipatory Anxiety and Panic Disorder
If you have panic disorder, you may find yourself anxiously anticipating many life events -- driving to work, going into a store, attending a social gathering and many other activities. Anticipatory anxiety may cause you to feel so anxious that it interfere with your ability to fully function in your everyday life. Here you will learn how to deal with anticipatory anxiety.
Tips for Living With Panic Disorder
Living with panic disorder is not always easy. But there are ways you can manage the anxiety and panic in your life.
Abdominal Breathing
Improper breathing can upset the oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange in your body and contribute to anxiety, panic attacks, fatigue and other physical and emotional disturbances.
Headache Symptoms and Panic Disorder
If you have panic disorder, you may experience frequent headache symptoms. These troubling symptoms can range from moderate throbbing to a debilitating migraine. Here you will find information about headache symptoms and panic disorder.
Biological Theories of Panic Disorder
A discussion of the biological theories of the cause of panic disorder.
Supporting a Loved One With Panic Disorder and Agoraphobia
Tips for Supporting a Loved One With Panic Disorder and Agoraphobia
Panic Disorder and IBS
Irritable bowel syndrome is not a specific disease, but is used to describe a group of gastrointestinal symptoms. IBS has been associated with panic and other anxiety disorders. Here you will find information about IBS, including common sympotms and diagnostic tests used to confirm the syndrome.
Anxiety Disorders and Alcohol Abuse Disorders
Limited alcohol use is often considered acceptable in many situations. The occasional night cap to unwind, or the couple of celebratory drinks during a social gathering, are usually not problematic and may even be considered socially customary. But, studies have shown that if you have panic disorder or another anxiety disorder, you may be at risk of having co-occurring problem drinking.
What’s the Difference Between Fear and Anxiety?
Fear and anxiety both produce similar responses to certain dangers. But, many experts believe that there are important differences between the two. Here is an explanation of the differences between fear and anxiety.
What is Panic Disorder?
What is Panic Disorder? The basics of Panic Disorder including how its diagnosed and treated.
What Causes Panic Disorder?
Several theories have been developed to explain the cause of panic disorder. Here you will find information about the genetic, environmental, metabolic and biological influences believed to play a part in the development of panic disorder.
Multiaxial Diagnostic System of the DSM-IV-TR
The DSM-IV-TR uses a five level diagnostic system to classify illnesses and disorders. Here you will learn about the five axis criteria used by mental health professionals.
Neurotransmitters: The Chemical Messengers of the Brain
For optimal brain function, neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) must be carefully balanced and orchestrated. Here you will find information about the neurotransmitters associated with many psychological and behavioral illnesses, including panic disorder.
What Kind of Professionals Treat Panic Disorder?
What types of professionals treat panic disorder? What do those letters after my doctor's or therapist's name mean?
Gastrointestinal (GI) Symptoms and Anxiety Disorders
Gastrointestinal (GI) disturbances are common medical conditions that often include stomach pain, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, nausea and vomiting. Here you will find information about how GI disturbances are associated with panic and other anxiety disorders.
How Can I Choose a Good Therapist?
There are many qualified therapists available, but being qualified doesn’t, necessarily, translate to a good fit for every individual. Choosing the right therapist is not an easy, clear-cut decision. Making this choice is a very personal experience, based on your own unique needs and characteristics.
Panic Disorder Treatment Options
Panic disorder is a very treatable illness. Learn how psychotherapy and medications can help in your recovery from panic disorder.
Understanding the Fear of Panic Disorder: For Family and Friends
What is it like to experience the fear associated with panic disorder?
Does Your Diet Contribute To Your Panic Attacks?
Is your diet increasing your anxiety and panic attacks?
The Human Brain: How Brain Cells Communicate With Each Other
Panic disorder has been linked to chemical imbalances in the brain. Here you will find information about the brain’s communication process using chemical messengers and what chemicals have been associated with panic disorder.
Acid Reflux Disease and Panic Disorder
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or acid reflux disease, is a common health problem that causes heartburn and acid regurgitation from the stomach. Here you will find information about GERD, including symptoms, risks and complications associated with acid reflux disease.
The Fight or Flight Theory of Panic Disorder?
What is the fight or flight response and how is it related to panic disorder?
How Is Panic Disorder Diagnosed?
Learn what you need to know about how panic disorder is diagnosed.
Anxiety vs. Panic: What’s the Difference?
The terms anxiety attack and panic attack are often used interchangeably. But, is there a difference between panic and anxiety? Find out the similarities and differences of these closely related terms.