There may be a feeling of unreality, or being detached from oneself. A panic attack often results in a fear of dying, losing control or going crazy. This attack comes on suddenly, and often occurs without a trigger. A person with panic disorder spends a tremendous amount of time worrying about having another attack. This may result in lifestyle changes, or other behavior pattern designed to prepare for the possibility of another panic attack.
Panic attacks can frequently result in a significant disruption of normal behavior.
Many individuals after having a panic attack visit the emergency room of a hospital, because they are convinced that they are having a medical emergency. Treatment for panic disorder, and the associated anxiety and avoidance behavior, involves psychotherapy, desensitization and other cognitive and behavioral techniques. The goal is to be able to regain control and interrupt a panic attack if one occurs. Frequently, other anxiety issues have to be treated as part of controlling panic disorder. Top of Page and Navigation Bar Psychology Information Online , developed by Donald J. Franklin, Ph.D. , provides information about the practice of psychology, features Continuing Education Programs and a Psychology Bookstore , and hosts the National Directory of Psychologists .