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Agoraphobia and Panic Disorder |
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Panic Disorder with AgoraphobiaAgoraphobia almost always occurs with panic disorder, but can sometimes occur on its own. It is more appropriate to look at agoraphobia as the best explanation for a problem, rather than specific phobias, when there are many phobias, and when the theme common to all of the fears is a difficult escape. Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by repeated and unexpected attacks of intense fear and anxiety. Panic attacks are usually not related to a particular situation and typically peak within ten minutes of onset. The anxiety experienced by patients with social and specific phobias is usually expected or cued to a recognized stimulus. Agoraphobia refers to a fear of being in places where escape might be difficult, or where help might be unavailable in case of a panic attack. This fear causes the person to withdraw into safer surroundings, and many agoraphobics will only frequent a few secure locations, such as their home, a specific route to work, or sometimes the homes of friends or relatives. They typically avoid bridges, tunnels, elevators, highways without shoulders, limited access roads with infrequent exits, or being in crowded places. In the extreme, they will not leave their home. A physical examination and a psychological evaluation will be performed to arrive at a diagnosis. People with undiagnosed panic disorder may truly feel as if they are dying. Often, they will go to emergency rooms or other urgent care centers because they think they are having a heart attack. Given the physical nature of symptoms and the possibilities for misdiagnosis, it is critical that any underlying medical disorders be ruled out. Cardiovascular, endocrine, respiratory, neurologic, and substance abuse disorders may be suspected and can coexist with panic disorders. Diagnostic tests will done depending on the symptoms. What are the treatments of Panic disorder with Agoraphobia?The goal of treatment is to help the person function effectively. The success of treatment usually depends in part on the severity of the agoraphobia. Antidepressant medications are effective treatments for many people with panic disorder -- selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as Paxil, have become the effective treatments. Other antianxiety medications may also be prescribed. Behavioral therapies that may be used in conjunction with drug therapy include relaxation techniques, pleasant mental imagery, and cognitive behavioral therapy to restructure distorted and potentially harmful interpretations of the experience of severe anxiety. Other psychological counseling and therapy techniques may help individuals gain an understanding of the illness and the specific factors that serve as protectors or triggers for them. If you are prone to panic attacks, early intervention is essential. It is very important to prevent the development of agoraphobia, which may significantly interfere with your ability to work, or to deal with social situations outside the home. Panic Disorder and Agoraphobia
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