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Panic Disorder - Coggle Diagram
Panic Disorder
Pathophysiology
The brain circuits and regions associated with anxiety disorders are beginning to be understood with the development of functional and structural imaging.
In the central nervous system (CNS) the major mediators of the symptoms of anxiety disorders appear to be norepinephrine, serotonin, dopamine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).
In the central nervous system (CNS) the major mediators of the symptoms of anxiety disorders appear to be norepinephrine, serotonin, dopamine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).
Peripherally, the autonomic nervous system, especially the sympathetic nervous system, mediates many of the symptoms.
Medication
An anti-anxiety prescription drug such as a benzodiazepine. For people with substance use disorders, doctors may prescribe other medications.
Medicine to even out an irregular heartbeat, if you have one
An antidepressant, which is generally the first choice to prevent future panic attacks.
Nursing Interventions
Stay calm and be nonthreatening. Maintain a calm, nonthreatening manner while working with client; anxiety is contagious and may be transferred from staff to client or vice versa.
Assure client of safety. Reassure client of his or her safety and security; this can be conveyed by physical presence of the nurse; do not leave client alone at this time.
Be clear and concise with words. Use simple words and brief messages, speak calmly and clearly, to explain hospital experiences to client; in an intensely anxious situation, client is unable to comprehend anything but the most elementary communication.
Provide a non-stimulating environment. Keep immediate surroundings low in stimuli (dim lighting, few people, simple decor); a stimulating environment may increase level of anxiety.
Administer medications as prescribed. Administer tranquilizing medication, as ordered by physician; assess medication for effectiveness and for adverse side effects.
Recognize precipitating factors. When level of anxiety has been reduced, explore with client possible reasons for occurrence; recognition of precipitating factors is the first step in teaching client to interrupt escalation of anxiety.
Encourage client to verbalize feelings. Encourage client to talk about traumatic experience under nonthreatening conditions; help client work through feelings of guilt related to the traumatic event; help client understand that this was an event to which most people would have responded in like manner.
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Patient Education
Avoid smoking and caffeine, which can bring on panic attacks in some people. Learn deep-breathing exercises, which can lessen some symptoms of panic attacks. Yoga, meditation, and muscle relaxation exercises can help you cope with stress in your life. They may also help prevent panic attacks.
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