Diagnosis of Panic Disorder in Patients With Recurrent Panic Disorder After a Traumatic Event: Case Report

Background: Panic disorder is a condition where sudden anxiety attacks occur and are accompanied by feelings of depression. Symptoms of panic disorder include the emergence of repeated and unexpected panic attacks. These vulnerability factors include genetics, neurobiological factors, events during childhood, and personality. Panic disorders that occur after trauma are seen as reminders of the trauma. A history of previous trauma and a history of vulnerability in some patients can trigger a greater incidence of panic disorder. Objective: To describe diagnosis of panic disorder in patient with recurrent panic disorder after a traumatic event Case description: A 42-year-old male visited the Psychiatric Clinic complaining of frequent panic over the past three years. The patient experienced fear, shortness of breath, palpitations, cold sweats, and feeling dazed when in crowds. This happened after the patient had witnessed a stabbing incident in front of his house. The patient was diagnosed with a panic disorder. Panic disorder is characterized by sudden, repeated, and unexpected anxiety attacks. Risk factors include genetics, neurobiology, childhood events, and personality. Panic disorders that occur after trauma are considered reminders of trauma. The patient showed clinical improvement after receiving therapy and medication. The symptoms must be carefully assessed to obtain an accurate diagnosis. This study provides an overview of differentiating panic disorder from phobias and PTSD as well as identifying appropriate diagnoses. Conclusion: The diagnosis of panic disorder needs to be done correctly so that the therapy is provided accordingly.