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Panic Attack or Panic Disorder? How to Know the Difference
Does having a panic attack mean you also have a panic disorder? The answer isn’t always clear. Some people have recurrent panic attacks, while others only ever experience one or two.
Whether you have a panic disorder depends on the frequency and severity of your attacks.
Psychiatric specialist Wendy Ann Reiss, MSN, PMHNP-BC, has extensive experience treating panic disorders and attacks. She can help you spot the differences and overlapping symptoms so you receive the appropriate treatment.
Panic disorders and attacks cause overwhelming fear and dread
Before we discuss their differences, understand that panic disorders and attacks share many similarities.
Similarities between panic attacks and panic disorders
Both panic attacks and disorders can cause intense, unexplainable episodes of fear or deep unease, leaving you feeling breathless and scared.
These episodes often trigger physical symptoms, such as:
- Rapid heartbeat
- Sweating
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- A feeling of losing control or impending doom
These symptoms are distressing and can shake you to your core, even if the attack is brief. In both cases, it’s common to worry frequently about experiencing another episode.
Is your panic just a moment or a cycle?
Does your panic feel like an isolated incident, or has it started to affect your daily life? Recognizing the distinction between a single episode and a recurring issue is crucial for finding the proper support and treatment.
Panic attacks
Panic attacks are isolated episodes that can happen to anyone, often triggered by stress, a specific phobia, or without an identifiable cause. Some people may experience one or two panic attacks in their lifetime and never have another.
Panic disorder
Panic disorder involves recurring, unexpected panic attacks, along with constant worry about future attacks and avoiding things that might trigger them. This continuous anxiety can make daily tasks, work, and relationships difficult to manage, turning it into a long-term challenge that often needs professional help.
Signs it’s time to talk to a professional about panic episodes
If you experience more frequent panic attacks or avoid places or situations because you fear triggering another episode, talking to a professional can help. Our team provides support, helps you understand what’s going on, and develops strategies that make it easier to manage and reduce the impact of panic in your life.
Don’t wait to seek professional guidance if you experience panic attacks or a panic disorder. Call our office today or use the online scheduling tool to book an appointment online.