Women more often than men are misdiagnosed with anxiety disorder and are less likely than men to receive an appropriate workup for heart disease. Postmenopausal women , particularly those without hormone replacement, are more at risk for heart disease. People who experience a panic attack and who are not found to have any other medical cause for the symptoms are often treated with minor tranquilizers such as Xanax. However, for those people who have only experienced one or two episodes, reassurance is usually the best approach. If, however, the attacks continue and a diagnosis of panic disorder is made, treatment should be offered.
Early treatment is essential.
Untreated panic disorder can often lead to significant disruption in a person's life. The experience of a panic attack is so unpleasant that a person will attempt to avoid anything which she feels might precipitate another. This often leads to more and more restriction in her life as she begins to avoid going out in crowds, avoids driving, and eventually can become so agoraphobic that she is house bound. Treatment of uncomplicated panic disorder is usually accomplished by either behavioral therapy or use of medications. Both types of treatment are very effective.