Panic Attacks

If you experience a sense of impending danger, shortness of breath, or a racing heartbeat, you might be having a panic attack. At DuPage Psychiatric Care PLLC in Oak Park, Skokie, Hinsdale, and Wheaton, Illinois, the compassionate behavioral health team offers treatments for anxiety disorders, including panic attacks. Schedule an in-person or telehealth mental health evaluation by phone or book one online today for symptom relief. 

What are panic attacks?

Panic attacks can happen because of intense fears that trigger debilitating physical reactions. They can feel frightening and diminish your quality of life when not addressed. See the DuPage Psychiatric Care PLLC experts at the first sign of anxiety disorders, particularly if you suspect you’re having panic attacks. 

Which symptoms can panic attacks cause?

Panic attacks can cause the following symptoms:

• A sense of losing control
• Feeling like you’re dying or having a heart attack
• Difficulty breathing
• Tightness in your throat
• Intense fear
• Pounding heart rate
• Trembling
• Sweating
• Chills
• Shaking
• Hot flashes
• Shortness of breath
• Stomach cramping
• Nausea
• Chest pain
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Feeling faint
• Lightheadedness
• Sense of unreality

You might live in constant fear of having another panic attack or avoid situations that trigger extreme anxiety.

What are the risk factors for panic attacks?

Things that may increase your risk of anxiety disorders and panic attacks include:

• Family history of panic attacks
• Extreme stress
• Certain personality traits
• Changes in brain function
• Past trauma
• Death of a loved one
• Severe illnesses
• Sexual or physical assault
• Divorce 
• Having a baby
• Smoking
• Excessive caffeine intake
• Childhood abuse, neglect, or other trauma

When not treated, panic attacks can negatively impact your job, school, or personal life. You may develop phobias, including a fear of leaving your home, driving, or being in social situations. 

Other complications may include depression, anxiety, substance misuse, thoughts of suicide, or even financial challenges.

How are panic attacks diagnosed?

The DuPage Psychiatric Care PLLC experts can diagnose anxiety disorders and panic attacks after completing a mental health evaluation. Your provider discusses your symptoms, mood, emotions, thoughts, and behavior patterns. You’ll share how panic attacks impact your life and your treatment preferences.

The practice also provides GeneSight® genetic testing to determine which medications are best based on your genetic characteristics.

How are panic attacks treated?

DuPage Psychiatric Care PLLC offers numerous treatments for panic attacks and mental health disorders associated with them, such as depression and anxiety. Treatment options include:

• Psychotherapy
• Oral medications  
• Intravenous (IV) ketamine
• Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)
• Spravato® nasal spray
• Lifestyle counseling

It’s also vital to properly manage stress, try relaxation techniques, get enough sleep, and stay physically active. You should also avoid alcohol, caffeine, smoking, and using drugs.

Schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment at DuPage Psychiatric Care PLLC by phone or request one online today.