When To Call A Professional

If you have symptoms of a panic attack, and you have never been diagnosed with panic disorder, seek medical help immediately. Remember, symptoms of a panic attack can mimic those of many life-threatening medical illnesses. For this reason, a doctor should determine the cause of your problem.

Panic attacks are so uncomfortable, you are likely to be eager to get help as quickly as you can. When you see your doctor, describe your attacks in as much detail as possible. The list of symptoms above may help you to organize your description.

Prognosis

With appropriate treatment, the prognosis is good. Between 30% and 40% of patients become symptom-free for extended periods, while another 50% continue to experience only mild symptoms that do not significantly affect daily life. Only 10% to 20% of patients do not improve.

Additional Info

American Psychiatric Association 1400 K St., NW Washington, DC 20005 Toll-Free: (888) 357-7924 Fax: (202) 682-6850 http://www.psych.org/

National Institute of Mental Health 6001 Executive Blvd. Room 8184, MSC 9663 Bethesda, MD 20892-9663 Phone: (301) 443-4513 http://www.nimh.nih.gov/

Anxiety Disorders Association of America 8730 Georgia Ave. Suite 600 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Phone: (240) 485-1001 Fax: (240) 485-1035 http://www.adaa.org/