What causes panic attacks?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 24 years old. If something happens to my body, my mind is constantly on alert. If my teeth come together, I panic and recheck my teeth by hitting them purposefully to satisfy myself. Finally, no satisfaction. And I believe I have damaged my tooth by doing this. This has been happening to me for the past four months. And one panic succeeds another. Now I worry that I have damaged my entire body and I keep crying. I have not informed my parents about this situation. Please advise me on what to do now. Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

Do you have any other repeated thoughts other than teeth-related? It can be a condition known as OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder), and it can be a part of anxiety disorder as well. I would advise you to refrain from checking when you think about checking your teeth and try to distract yourself. Practice yoga and exercises. Try to engage yourself in activities. Tell your parents about your problem; it is nothing to be ashamed of; this is a common condition in this age group. It can be medically treated using a group of drugs called SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). I suggest you start with the tablet Nexito 10 mg (Escitalopram oxalate) in the morning, along with Clonazepam 0.25 mg at night. Before starting medication, I would advise you to talk to your parents about this and employ the non-medical approach I mentioned above; if this persists, consult a local psychiatrist.

I hope this helps.

Take care.

Regards.