What Is a Panic Attack?
6. How Are They Diagnosed?
The first step in diagnosing a panic disorder is ruling out other medical conditions. Your doctor may recommend a physical exam, heart test and blood tests to rule out a heart attack or other problem. Once this is done, a psychological evaluation can determine whether you’re experiencing a panic attack or other disorders.
The DSM-5 lists three points for diagnosing panic attacks. First, the attacks need to be frequent and unexpected. Second, they are typically followed by a month or more of continual worry about the cued event or the risk of another attack. Finally, panic episodes caused by drug use or medical conditions aren’t considered a panic disorder.
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