Can I consult with a doctor on Laso MD regarding my panic attacks?

Absolutely. You have the option to discuss your panic attacks with a doctor on Laso MD.

Following an assessment of your condition and symptoms, the doctor may provide recommendations on managing panic attacks. Additionally, they might suggest further diagnostic tests at a clinic to confirm the diagnosis.

These tests may encompass:

• A comprehensive physical examination
• Assessments of your heart and thyroid gland, as similar symptoms can be associated with conditions in these areas
• A psychological evaluation to identify potential triggers for panic attacks

 

Is it possible to receive a prescription through Laso MD?

Certainly. Our physicians can issue online prescriptions during your consultation. Upon accepting a prescription, you can either collect it from any pharmacy or opt for free home delivery.

 

What is a panic attack?

A panic attack is a sudden and overwhelming surge of intense fear or anxiety, often accompanied by severe psychosomatic responses—physical reactions triggered by the mental state. These episodes can be alarming, causing individuals to fear they are experiencing a heart attack or facing imminent danger.

 

What is the distinction between panic disorder and panic attack?

It is common for individuals to encounter at least one panic attack during their lifetime, with severity influenced by mental stress or situational factors. Panic disorder, on the other hand, arises when a person undergoes unexpected or recurring panic attacks or lives in constant dread of experiencing more. The symptoms of panic disorder are generally similar to those observed during panic attacks.

 

What are the symptoms of a panic attack?

The manifestations of a panic attack can vary widely in intensity and presentation, as individuals may undergo these episodes differently.

Common symptoms of a panic attack include:

• Chills or sweating
• Headache
• Sudden onset of nausea
• Sense of impending danger or doom
• Chest pain
• Rapid or pounding heartbeat
• Fear of death or loss of control
• Chest pain or tightness
• Abdominal cramps
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Tingling or numbness
• Shortness of breath
• Tremors
• Hot flashes
• Feeling detached from reality

 

What are the symptoms of panic disorder?

Given that panic disorder entails chronic or recurrent panic attacks, its symptoms largely align with those experienced during individual panic attacks.

In addition to the aforementioned panic attack symptoms, individuals with panic disorder may endure a persistent, lingering sense of dread or fear. This fixation often revolves around anticipated attacks that have not yet occurred, potentially negatively impacting their overall quality of life if left untreated.

 

What causes panic attacks and panic disorder?

The direct triggers for panic attacks remain unclear at this time. However, certain factors are thought to contribute to their occurrence and elevate the likelihood of experiencing an episode. These factors include:

• High-stress situations
• Chronic stress
• Genetic predisposition
• Temperament prone to negative reactions or emotions
• Changes in brain function

 

Is panic disorder curable?

Yes, in many cases, treatment for panic attacks can effectively reduce or eliminate the frequency of episodes. Severe instances may necessitate panic attack medication, such as SSRIs, SNRIs, or benzodiazepines, along with ongoing psychotherapy sessions.

Panic disorder is classified as an anxiety disorder and a mental illness. Therefore, the condition may reoccur if the underlying factors contributing to its development resurface. Regular assessments by a healthcare professional can monitor emotional well-being, and discussions about panic attack breathing exercises and other self-regulation techniques may be recommended to prevent future attacks.

 

How is panic disorder managed?

The primary approaches to panic disorder management encompass either medication or ongoing psychotherapy.

Psychotherapy, commonly referred to as “talk therapy,” stands out as a highly effective treatment for panic disorder and panic attacks. Typically, this form of treatment involves therapists guiding patients through a controlled environment to recreate panic attack symptoms. This process helps individuals learn coping strategies and emotional control, potentially aiding in overcoming fears or anxieties that act as triggers for panic attacks.

Medication for panic attacks can be categorized into three types:

1. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): Antidepressants known as SSRIs.
2. Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs): Another class of antidepressants, also known as SNRIs.
3. Benzodiazepines: Central nervous system depressants.

The prescribed dosage and frequency of use are contingent on the severity of the condition.

 

How to manage a panic attack?

Although there is no foolproof method to prevent a panic attack, various techniques can be employed to help minimize symptoms during an episode. Consider implementing the following strategies:

1. Utilizing muscle relaxation or meditation techniques
2. Engaging in deep breathing exercises
3. Closing your eyes to diminish external stimuli
4. Recognizing and acknowledging that a panic attack is occurring
5. Focusing on an object to divert your mind from fears
6. Incorporating light exercise to alleviate nervous energy
7. Taking prescribed medication, preferably in advance if you sense an imminent panic attack
8. Practicing mindfulness and concentrating on the surrounding environment to avoid feeling detached from reality
9. Repeating a calming mantra or phrase
10. Keeping calming scents nearby, such as lavender, lemon, or rosemary.

 

What distinguishes a panic attack from an anxiety attack?

While the symptoms of panic attacks and anxiety attacks closely resemble each other, the primary distinction lies in the trigger. An anxiety attack is directly linked to an existing stressor, whereas a panic attack can occur entirely unprovoked.

This renders panic attack triggers less predictable and more intense, given the limited or nonexistent warning before their onset. Anticipated panic attacks triggered by external stressors do exist but are commonly associated with severe phobias.

 

What is Laso MD?

With Laso MD, you can swiftly connect with a doctor or psychotherapist to discuss your symptoms. It’s a healthcare app providing fast, convenient 24/7 access to Canadian healthcare professionals.

By logging in and requesting a consultation, you can connect with a doctor via live chat or video.

Visit our How it Works page to learn more about how our healthcare professionals can assess symptoms and provide treatment, including prescriptions when needed.