Health Information
Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder
When To Call a Doctor
Call your doctor if you have:
- Attacks of intense fear or Reference anxiety Opens New Window that seem to come on without a reason.
- A panic attack or worry that you will have another one, and your worrying interferes with your ability to do your daily activities.
- Occasional physical symptoms (such as shortness of breath and chest pain), and you are not sure what is causing them.
Watchful waiting
It can be hard to tell the difference between the symptoms of a panic attack (such as shortness of breath and chest pain) and the Reference symptoms of a heart attack Opens New Window or another serious medical problem. If you have symptoms of a panic attack, be sure to get medical care right away so that other medical conditions can be ruled out.
Who to see
The following health professionals can diagnose panic attacks. They may work together with other health professionals to treat panic attacks and panic disorder:
- Reference Emergency medicine specialist Opens New Window
- Reference Family medicine physician Opens New Window
- Reference General practitioner Opens New Window
- Reference Physician assistant Opens New Window
- Reference Nurse practitioner Opens New Window
Treatment for panic attacks and panic disorder may also be provided by a:
- Reference Psychiatrist Opens New Window.
- Reference Psychologist Opens New Window.
- Reference Licensed professional counselor Opens New Window.
Many community mental health centers, hospital outpatient clinics, and family service agencies have treatment programs for people with panic disorder.
To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Reference Making the Most of Your Appointment.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference September 7, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Reference Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry |
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
