Anxiety: Know When to Seek Medical Advice

A panic attack is when your anxiety escalates to extreme levels and causes several unwanted physical reactions. If you are experiencing frequent episodes of panic attacks, you may have what is called panic disorder. Symptoms of panic attacks may include increased heart rate, trembling, hyperventilation, hot flashes, chest pains, fainting, sweating, dizziness, and chills, among others. Because these symptoms may be similar to life-threatening medical conditions, it is crucial to seek medical advice. By doing so, you will be diagnosed and hence prescribed the appropriate treatment plan for your case.

When Should You Seek Help?

You should seek medical help as soon as you detect symptom of anxiety disorders. These can be very difficult to deal with on your own and they may even worsen when not treated immediately. Thus, it is best to have yourself evaluated by a doctor if you are unsure of the cause of your symptoms. If it is found that what you are having is a panic attack and not any other severe health condition, then your health provider may refer you to a psychiatrist for further treatment.

If you're having second thoughts about getting your anxiety problems treated, try to talk to someone such as a family member or a friend. He/she may encourage you to take the first steps in getting treatment.

Medical Exams

Once you have agreed to be treated, your physician will administer several exams before he gives his diagnosis of your condition. Tests that you will undergo may include the following:
- Physical exam. This includes checking the vital signs.
- Laboratory tests. You may be required to have blood tests.
- Psychological assessment. You will be asked regarding what your symptoms are, how long and often they occur, and how you feel whenever you're experiencing them. The doctor will probe into a few aspects of your personal life like fears, stressful situations, relationship problems, and so on.

Complications

If you don't have your panic attacks treated, they can give rise to severe complications that would have negative effects on almost all of the areas of your life. You would constantly worry about your next panic attack and this will definitely destroy your quality of life. A few examples of these complications are as follows:
- More phobias (e.g. leaving your home, dealing with strangers, etc.)
- Depression
- Increased risk of committing suicide
- Problems in school or work
- Social isolation
- Alcohol and/or drug abuse

Therapy

Your doctor may prescribe medications or other forms of therapy such as the Panic Away Program, the Linden Method, or Panic Anxiety GONE!.