screening for panic

Overview

Screening for panic means checking for signs of panic attacks or panic disorder. A panic attack is a sudden wave of intense fear or discomfort that peaks within minutes. Panic disorder happens when these attacks keep coming back and you worry about having more.

Yes. Panic attacks and panic disorder are common. Around 1 in 10 people in the UK may have a panic attack at some point in their life, and panic disorder affects about 2 in 100 people each year.

Panic disorder can start at any age, but it often begins in the late teens or early adulthood. It is more common in women than men, but anyone can experience panic attacks.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Sudden, intense fear or dread without a clear danger
• Racing heart or pounding heartbeat
• Sweating, trembling or shaking
• Shortness of breath or feeling smothered
• Chest pain or tightness
• Feeling dizzy, light-headed or faint
• Feeling detached from yourself or the situation
• Nausea or stomach upset

Symptoms in children

• Panic attacks in children may look like tantrums or crying spells
• Children may complain of stomach-aches or headaches
• They may avoid school or social activities

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may describe a racing heart or chest pain during a panic attack
• They may be more likely to feel faint or fall
• Medical conditions can make symptoms more confusing, so a doctor's review is important

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause of panic disorder is not fully understood
• An overactive 'fight or flight' response may make the body react strongly to stress

Risk factors

• Family history of panic disorder or anxiety
• Major life stress, such as losing a loved one or changing jobs
• A history of childhood trauma or abuse
• Having another anxiety disorder or depression
• Smoking or heavy caffeine use

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have repeated panic attacks that are getting worse
• If panic symptoms interfere with daily life
• If you feel hopeless, suicidal, or like you cannot cope

Book a routine appointment if:

• Book a routine appointment if you have had one or more panic attacks and want to understand them

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, when they happen, and how they affect your life. They will also check whether another medical condition, such as a thyroid problem or heart issue, could be causing your symptoms.

Tests that may be done

• A physical examination
• Simple blood tests to rule out other causes
• A mental health screening questionnaire

What to expect at your appointment

A screening appointment usually lasts 20 to 30 minutes. You will be asked to describe your experiences. Your answers will help a healthcare professional decide whether you may need further assessment or treatment.

Treatment

Panic disorder is treatable. Most people improve with talking therapy, sometimes combined with medication. Your doctor can recommend the best option for you based on your specific situation.

Self-care at home

• Learn slow breathing techniques to calm your body during a panic attack
• Speak to someone you trust about how you feel
• Keep a diary of your symptoms, triggers and what helps
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol and energy drinks, as they can trigger anxiety

Medical treatments

Talking therapy, especially cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), is very effective for panic disorder. Your doctor may also discuss medication to reduce panic symptoms. Any medicine should always be prescribed and reviewed by a doctor, and you should ask about possible side effects and how long to take it.

Living with this condition

Panic can make daily life feel unpredictable, but there are ways to manage it. Learn to notice early warning signs, use calming techniques, and keep a regular routine. Over time, panic attacks usually become less frequent and less intense.

Lifestyle tips

• Sleep: aim for a regular sleep schedule, because tiredness can make anxiety worse
• Stress: build in small breaks and relaxation activities you enjoy
• Support: stay connected with friends, family or a support group
• Avoid avoidance: gently face the places or situations that worry you, with support from a professional

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet and doing regular physical activity, like walking or cycling, may help reduce anxiety. Try to keep caffeine low and avoid energy drinks, as they can bring on panic symptoms.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with panic can feel isolating and may lead to low mood. Remember that this is a medical condition, not a personal failure. Talking to a therapist can help you manage both panic and any related depression or worry.

Prevention

Panic disorder cannot always be prevented, but early treatment can stop it from becoming more serious. Learning stress management and keeping healthy habits may help reduce your risk.

Screening programmes

Screening for panic can help detect problems early. If you have had panic attacks, a healthcare professional can assess you and recommend treatment before it impacts your life further.

Complications

If left untreated

• Avoiding more and more situations, known as agoraphobia
• Difficulty holding down a job or studying
• Depression and low self-esteem
• Problems with alcohol or drug use

Long-term outlook

The outlook is good. With the right treatment and support, most people with panic disorder feel a lot better. Many recover completely, and even when symptoms return, they can be managed.

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