What to expect from a GP consultation for panic disorder

You may be asked what happens during an episode, how quickly symptoms build, how long they last and whether you fear another one. Describe physical sensations such as a racing heart, chest tightness, shaking, breathlessness, dizziness, sweating or tingling, as well as avoidance of places or activities. The GP may ask about sleep, mood, trauma, alcohol, caffeine, medicines and other health conditions. A physical examination and selected checks can help distinguish panic symptoms from problems affecting the heart, lungs, thyroid or blood sugar. Your answers are confidential, and you do not need to describe the experience perfectly.

Keep a brief record of triggers, sensations, thoughts, duration and what helped. Bring a list of medicines, supplements and substances, and mention fainting, chest pain or symptoms that occur with exertion. The GP may discuss talking therapy, self-help skills, medicine, or referral to mental-health services. Ask how to practise slow breathing without over-breathing, how follow-up will work and what to do during the next episode. Treatment choices should reflect your symptoms, preferences and other health needs.

Call emergency services for new severe chest pain, serious breathing difficulty, collapse, one-sided weakness, confusion or symptoms that feel different from your usual episodes. Seek immediate help if you may harm yourself or cannot stay safe. A panic episode can feel overwhelming, but new or unusual physical symptoms still deserve urgent assessment rather than being assumed to be panic.

Ask what diagnoses are being considered, which checks are needed, which treatment is recommended first, how quickly improvement is reviewed, and what crisis support is available between appointments.