Panic Attacks and Nocturnal Panic Disorder-The Importance of a Correct Diagnosis

Panic attacks are one of the most common symptoms of a panic and anxiety disorder and can be extremely frightening and disruptive.  But when treated correctly, panic and anxiety disorders can be very effectively managed and their symptoms substantially minimized.  

Panic and anxiety disorders will affect about 5% of people throughout their lifetime.  Most are minor cases, but some can be severe.  Panic attacks are frequently the first sign that someone might have a disorder requiring attention.  Usually, a panic attack is sudden and immediate – the sufferer suddenly gets short of breath, frightened, shaky, and the heart starts pounding.  Some people may even faint or require immediate medical attention, and attacks can last from a few minutes to hours.  Stress, biological factors, or medication are some of the contributors to panic attacks.

About one in five panic attacks occur during sleep.  The panic and anxiety felt during the attack can be especially frightening in these cases.  Many times, patients will suddenly wake up out of breath and in a cold sweat, with no memory of a bad dream or other reason for waking.  Often it is very difficult to diagnose these as panic and anxiety attacks, as sufferers will tend to fear they are having a heart attack or nervous breakdown.  Diagnosis is made even more difficult if the patient does not experience similar episodes throughout the daytime.  In these cases, tests for other conditions may be negative, and the patient may have a specific panic and anxiety disorder, known as “nocturnal panic disorder.”  This disorder is rare among victims of panic attacks, but can easily be treated in consultation with a medical provider.

Doctors may provide medication or suggest counseling to treat a panic or anxiety disorder.  Making a correct diagnosis is the key to successful treatment and early detection greatly increases the chances of successful intervention.