Question 1

What is the Meaning of Panic Disorder?

Accepted Answer

Panic Disorder is a psychiatric condition characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks. These episodes involve sudden, intense surges of fear or discomfort, peaking within minutes, accompanied by distressing physical and cognitive symptoms. Individuals often experience persistent worry about additional attacks or make significant behavioral changes to avoid them.

Question 2

What is the Context of Panic Disorder?

Accepted Answer

This disorder involves dysregulation of brain circuits for fear processing within the central nervous system, notably the amygdala. While not strictly endocrine, physiological manifestations of panic attacks involve acute release of stress hormones like cortisol and catecholamines. This activates the HPA axis and sympathetic nervous system, mimicking a threat response.

Question 3

What is the Significance of Panic Disorder?

Accepted Answer

Panic Disorder significantly impacts well-being, causing considerable functional impairment in daily life, work, and social interactions. Its clinical importance stems from potential for chronic anxiety, avoidance behaviors, and co-occurring conditions like depression. Early, accurate diagnosis is critical to prevent symptom progression and improve long-term outcomes.

Question 4

What is the Mechanism of Panic Disorder?

Accepted Answer

A panic attack involves abrupt activation of the body's fight-or-flight response without external danger, leading to rapid increases in heart rate, respiration, and muscle tension. Neurochemically, imbalances in neurotransmitter systems like serotonin, norepinephrine, and GABA are implicated in this faulty alarm signaling. Genetic predispositions and stressors contribute to this vulnerability.

Question 5

What is the Application of Panic Disorder?

Accepted Answer

Clinical management of Panic Disorder integrates cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), helping individuals reframe thoughts and gradually confront avoided situations. Pharmacological approaches often include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) to modulate neurochemical balance. Short-term anxiolytics may be used when clinically indicated. Adherence is vital.

Question 6

What is the Metric of Panic Disorder?

Accepted Answer

Assessment of Panic Disorder relies on structured clinical interviews and validated self-report questionnaires, aligning with DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. Clinicians evaluate frequency, intensity, and duration of panic attacks, plus anticipatory anxiety and avoidance behaviors. Physiological markers like heart rate during an episode can corroborate reports. Research explores HPA axis biomarkers, but these are not primary diagnostic tools.

Question 7

What is the Risk of Panic Disorder?

Accepted Answer

Improper management or non-treatment of Panic Disorder carries substantial risks, including agoraphobia, a severe avoidance of situations where panic might occur. Untreated panic disorder also increases the likelihood of secondary mood disorders, substance misuse, and diminished quality of life. Chronic physiological arousal may contribute to cardiovascular strain, underscoring timely clinical intervention.

Panic Disorder

Meaning

Context

Significance

Mechanism

Application

Metric

Risk

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