FAST FACTS

should be carried out to exclude other medical conditions.

Panic disorder is frequently misdiagnosed as a thyroid problem, hypoglycemia or a heart valve problem.

Up to 30% of people with panic disorder misuse or abuse alcohol, 17% abuse drugs, and up to 20% attempt to commit suicide.

While panic disorder typically occurs in adults between the ages of 20 and 40 years, it can also affect children and the elderly. Panic affects people of all races and classes.

Homeopathic treatments, for example, St Johns Wort, Rescue and acupuncture are being researched to assess their help for treating panic disorder.

Caffeine, cold and flu medications, Lariam (anti-malarial drug), appetite suppressants and local anaesthetics such as dental injections containing adrenaline may trigger panic attacks.

Between 50% and 75% of people with panic will avoid certain places and activities. This can lead to social impairment, greater than that of major depression.

Before receiving a diagnosis of panic, South Africans will on average visit 11 doctors and spend over R20 000 on medical investigations.

Treatment (usually) includes a combination of medication, psychotherapy and self-help (for example, reading, support groups, or relaxation techniques).

Antidepressant medications and benzodiazepine are usually used to treat panic.

The good news: Panic disorder is a highly treatable condition. With the right combinations of therapy, 90% of people recover greatly. The remaining 10% can experience significant recovery.

Source: www.sadag.org