Panic Attacks Charleston SC - Panic Disorder Signs and Treatment | Hope Integrative Medicine
November 1, 2026 · 1:13
What a panic attack feels like, how panic disorder differs from a single attack, how it is diagnosed, and what treatment can include, from cognitive behavioral therapy to medication.
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Transcript
Panic attacks and panic disorder: what they feel like and what helps. Here are three things to know. A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear with physical symptoms. Your heart may pound, you may sweat, shake or feel dizzy, and it can be hard to breathe. Many people feel out of control, or afraid something terrible is about to happen. An attack can last a few minutes to an hour. One panic attack does not mean panic disorder. A diagnosis means repeated, unexpected attacks, and at least a month of worrying about more attacks or changing your life because of them. Your provider may also do a physical exam to rule out other causes. Panic disorder can be treated with medication, counseling or both. Cognitive behavioral therapy is the gold standard talk therapy for panic. Antidepressants can help too, though they may take several weeks to start working. Good sleep, exercise and support help, but they do not replace treatment. Read the full article at hopeintegrativemed.com. If you are struggling, call or text 988.
Frequently Asked Questions
The National Institute of Mental Health says a panic attack can last from a few minutes to an hour, or sometimes longer. Attacks can happen at any time, even during sleep.
No. NIMH says not everyone who has a panic attack will develop panic disorder. People with panic disorder have frequent, unexpected attacks and spend at least a month worrying about having more.
Your provider may do a physical exam to make sure an unrelated physical problem is not causing your symptoms, according to NIMH.
