Panic attacks happen suddenly, wherein the patients who get panic attacks may face episodes of fear and anxiety. They often come with a range of distressing physical and psychological symptoms, including rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, trembling, and a feeling of impending doom.
Healthline states that most panic attacks last only a few minutes – though they often feel like a lifetime when you’re experiencing one.
Platforms like Medditour connect the patients seeking a holistic care for panic attacks with the international hospitals and facilitators for cost-effective treatments.
This article explores the diagnosis and treatment of panic attacks and how medical tourism in India, Thailand, and Singapore can offer comprehensive solutions for those affected.
Diagnosis of Panic Attacks
WebMD states that one in 10 adults in the U.S. have a panic attack each year and they usually begin between the ages of 15 and 25. Diagnosing panic attacks involves a thorough assessment by a qualified mental health professional. Diagnosis include,
- Clinical Assessment: The healthcare provider will take a detailed medical history and conduct a clinical interview to understand the patient’s symptoms, triggers, and frequency of panic attacks.
- Diagnostic Criteria: Diagnosis is often based on specific criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). To meet the criteria for panic disorder, a person typically experiences recurrent, unexpected panic attacks and develops anxiety about having more attacks.
- Psychological Assessment: Psychological assessments and questionnaires may be used to evaluate the severity of symptoms and their impact on the individual’s daily life.
Treatment for panic attacks
Common treatment approaches include:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a well-established therapy for panic disorder. It helps individuals identify and challenge irrational thoughts and beliefs that contribute to panic attacks. Techniques such as exposure therapy are often incorporated to reduce avoidance behaviors.
- Medications: Medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and benzodiazepines may be prescribed.
- Stress-Relief Techniques: Pranayama or deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help individuals manage the physical symptoms of panic attacks.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep, can play a significant role in managing panic attacks.
Medical Tourism for Panic Attacks
India, Thailand, and Singapore have emerged as top destinations for medical tourists seeking comprehensive and holistic treatments for panic attacks.
India offers a wide range of mental health services, including expert diagnosis and treatment of panic attacks through holistic approaches like Ayurveda and naturopathy. Renowned healthcare facilities, such as the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) in Bangalore, provide state-of-the-art treatments, including CBT and medication management.
Thailand has invested significantly in its healthcare infrastructure, attracting international patients seeking mental health services. Bangkok’s top-notch hospitals, like Bumrungrad International Hospital, offer evidence-based treatments for panic attacks. Patients benefit from holistic care that often includes counseling, relaxation therapies, and medication management.
Singapore is renowned for its world-class healthcare and mental health services. Institutions like the Singapore General Hospital provide cutting-edge treatments for panic attacks, including advanced psychotherapy and medication options.
Medical tourism companies like Medditour provide opportunities for patients seeking treatments for panic attacks to combine their treatments with vacation.
In conclusion, panic attacks can be profoundly distressing, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, individuals can regain control of their lives. Medical tourism in countries like India, Thailand, and Singapore offers not only cost-effective options but also access to holistic approaches that encompass the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of healing.