Panic disorder involves recurrent unexpected panic attacks — sudden surges of intense fear with somatic symptoms peaking within minutes — plus persistent worry about future attacks or maladaptive behavior change. First-line pharmacotherapy is SSRI or SNRI paired with CBT with interoceptive exposure. Dr. Farkas uses benzodiazepines only briefly at treatment initiation, if at all.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is a panic attack a medical emergency?
Panic attacks are not medically dangerous but cause severe distress. First-time attacks warrant medical evaluation to rule out cardiac, thyroid, or other medical causes. Once diagnosed, panic attacks are highly treatable.
How long does panic disorder treatment last?
Most patients continue SSRI treatment for 12 months after achieving remission before considering taper. Untreated or undertreated panic disorder can progress to agoraphobia.
Should I avoid caffeine?
Yes — caffeine, nicotine, and other stimulants can lower panic threshold. Reducing intake is a straightforward first step.
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Panic Attacks
Panic attacks are sudden surges of intense fear with dramatic physical symptoms—heart pounding, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, sense of impending doom—occurring without apparent trigger. Fear of future attacks leads to avoidance behaviors progressively restricting daily life.
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Understanding Panic Attacks
Panic attacks are unexpected surges of intense fear with severe physical and psychological symptoms. Recurrent panic attacks lead to panic disorder, where fear of future attacks creates avoidance patterns restricting life.
Common Symptoms
Emotional & Psychological
- Intense fear or sense of impending doom
- Feeling detached from surroundings
- Fear of losing control or dying
- Dread about future attacks
Physical & Behavioral
- Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
- Shortness of breath or choking sensation
- Chest pain or pressure
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or faintness
How Panic Attacks are Diagnosed
Panic attack diagnosis requires distinguishing panic from medical conditions causing similar physical symptoms. Dr. Farkas conducts thorough evaluation including medical assessment when needed, assessing panic's pattern and functional impact.
Why Choose Dr. Farkas for Panic Attack Treatment
Panic-Specific Expertise
Specialized knowledge of panic disorder neurobiology and evidence-based medication strategies for panic relief.
Responsible Prescribing
Balanced approach using non-addictive first-line treatments while responsibly managing anxiety medications when clinically necessary.
Medical Differentiation
Careful assessment distinguishing panic attacks from medical causes of physical symptoms requiring attention.
Avoidance Cycle Interruption
Medication enabling life resumption and therapy engagement breaking panic-avoidance patterns.
Ready to Start Panic Attack Treatment?
Expert psychiatric care begins with accurate assessment. Dr. Gabriella Farkas provides evidence-based treatment breaking panic-avoidance cycles and restoring confidence.
Call (917) 267-9678 for Your ConsultationNext Steps
Schedule Your Evaluation
Contact Dr. Farkas to schedule your comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. New patient appointments typically available within 2-4 weeks. During your first appointment, Dr. Farkas will:
- Conduct detailed panic attack symptom and pattern assessment
- Perform comprehensive psychiatric evaluation
- Evaluate medical causes and distinguish from cardiac or other conditions
- Develop personalized panic treatment strategy
Treatment Options
Based on your evaluation, Dr. Farkas discusses evidence-based medications balancing acute relief with long-term stability, therapy coordination, and lifestyle strategies.
Ongoing Care
Regular appointments monitor panic symptom frequency and severity, manage medications, support avoidance pattern interruption, and adjust treatment as you regain confidence.
Evidence-Based Resources
Learn more from authoritative sources:
Anxiety & Depression Association of America
National Institute of Mental Health - Panic Disorder
Panic Disorder Institute
Privacy & Confidentiality: Dr. Farkas's practice is fully HIPAA-compliant. Your health information is protected with the highest standards of confidentiality and security.