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Panic Attack and Phobia

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Dr. Arnab Pathak, a neuropsychiatrist based in Kolkata, is known for his expertise in managing a variety of mental health conditions, including panic attacks and phobic anxiety disorders. His approach typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle interventions. Here's an overview of these conditions and his likely approach to treatment: Panic Attack and Panic Disorder Panic Attacks: Symptoms: Sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort Physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, dizziness Feelings of unreality (derealization) or detachment from oneself (depersonalization) Fear of losing control, "going crazy," or dying Panic Disorder: Characteristics: Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks Persistent concern or worry about additional attacks Significant changes in behavior to avoid situations that might trigger an attack Treatment Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals identify and challenge irrational thoughts and beliefs that contribute to panic attacks. Techniques include cognitive restructuring and exposure therapy. Medication: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), benzodiazepines (for short-term use), and bet

Dr. Arnab Pathak, a neuropsychiatrist based in Kolkata, is known for his expertise in managing a variety of mental health conditions, including panic attacks and phobic anxiety disorders.

Panic Attacks:

  • Symptoms:
    • Sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort
    • Physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, dizziness
    • Feelings of unreality (derealization) or detachment from oneself (depersonalization)
    • Fear of losing control, “going crazy,” or dying

Panic Disorder:

  • Characteristics:
    • Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks
    • Persistent concern or worry about additional attacks
    • Significant changes in behavior to avoid situations that might trigger an attack

Treatment Approaches:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals identify and challenge irrational thoughts and beliefs that contribute to panic attacks. Techniques include cognitive restructuring and exposure therapy.
  • Medication: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), benzodiazepines (for short-term use), and beta-blockers.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Stress management techniques, regular physical activity, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol.
  • Psychoeducation: Educating patients about panic disorder and effective coping strategies.

Phobias:

  • Specific Phobias:
    • Intense, irrational fear of specific objects or situations (e.g., heights, spiders, flying)
  • Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia):
    • Intense fear of social situations and being judged or scrutinized by others
  • Agoraphobia:
    • Fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable during a panic attack

Treatment Approaches:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): The primary treatment, involving techniques like exposure therapy to gradually and systematically desensitize the patient to the feared object or situation.
  • Medication: SSRIs, SNRIs, and benzodiazepines (for short-term relief in severe cases).
  • Behavioral Techniques: Relaxation techniques, systematic desensitization, and graduated exposure.
  • Social Skills Training: Particularly for social anxiety disorder, to build confidence and improve interpersonal interactions.
  • Mindfulness and Stress Reduction Techniques: Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and other relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety.

Dr. Arnab Pathak’s Approach

Comprehensive Assessment:

  • Detailed interviews to understand the patient’s history, symptoms, and impact on daily life.
  • Use of standardized diagnostic tools and questionnaires.

Individualized Treatment Plans:

  • Customized treatment strategies tailored to the specific needs of the patient.
  • Combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration:

  • Working with other healthcare professionals, such as psychologists and therapists, to provide comprehensive care.

Parental and Family Involvement:

  • Engaging family members in the treatment process, particularly for younger patients, to provide support and education.

Follow-Up and Monitoring:

  • Regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary.
  • Ongoing support to help patients manage symptoms and prevent relapse.

Contact Information

Patients seeking treatment for panic attacks and phobic anxiety disorders can contact Dr. Arnab Pathak through his clinic in Kolkata.

Conclusion

Dr. Arnab Pathak’s expertise in neuropsychiatry enables him to provide effective treatment for panic attacks and phobic anxiety disorders. His comprehensive and patient-centered approach aims to alleviate symptoms, improve quality of life, and empower patients to manage their anxiety effectively.