subject: What Are the Most Common Panic Attack Treatments? [print this page]
A panic attack can feel sudden, intense, and difficult to understand. Your heart may race. You may feel short of breath, dizzy, shaky, or afraid that something is seriously wrong. These symptoms can be frightening, especially when they happen without an obvious reason. The good news is that support is available. The right care can help you understand what is happening and learn ways to respond when fear takes over. Panic attack treatments can include psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of approaches based on your symptoms, needs, and medical history. NIMH notes that cognitive behavioral therapy is commonly used for panic disorder and has strong research support.