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Panic attacks

Sudden intense fear with physical symptoms. Frightening, but manageable.

Speak to a GP about panic attacksFrom £79

In short

Panic attacks are common and very treatable, usually with CBT and techniques, sometimes with medication. Because the symptoms mimic heart problems, a first or severe attack should be medically assessed.

Overview

What is panic attacks?

A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear with strong physical symptoms, a racing heart, breathlessness, chest tightness, dizziness, that peaks within minutes. Recurrent attacks with worry about having more is called panic disorder. The symptoms are real but not harmful, and treatment, especially CBT, works well.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

  • Sudden, intense fear or dread
  • Racing or pounding heart
  • Shortness of breath or a choking feeling
  • Chest tightness
  • Sweating, trembling, or tingling
  • Dizziness and a feeling of unreality
  • A fear of losing control or dying during the attack

When to act

When to see a doctor

Book a GP if you're having panic attacks, especially if they're recurring or you're avoiding situations because of them. Call 999 for new or severe chest pain to rule out a heart problem first.

When to seek urgent help

Seek urgent help if

  • Chest pain, especially if it's new, severe, or spreads to the arm or jaw (call 999 to rule out a heart problem)
  • Fainting or collapse
  • Thoughts of suicide or self-harm (use crisis resources)
  • First-ever episode with severe symptoms (get assessed to be safe)

Call 999 for life-threatening emergencies or NHS 111 for urgent non-emergency advice.

Treatment

How a private GP can help

  • A careful assessment, including ruling out physical causes of the symptoms
  • Clear explanation of what panic attacks are and why they feel so physical
  • Breathing and grounding techniques to manage attacks
  • Signposting and referral to CBT via NHS Talking Therapies (very effective for panic)
  • Where appropriate, prescription of an SSRI such as sertraline (not a controlled drug)
  • A plan for recurrent attacks or panic disorder

What we don't do

  • Emergency assessment of chest pain (call 999 or attend A&E)
  • Prescribe benzodiazepines or other controlled drugs

Pricing

What it costs

An online consultation about panic attacks starts at £79 for a 20-minute video appointment. In-pharmacy consultations are £129 and home visits are £189. Your consultation includes one private prescription if appropriate, and a sick note for work if needed. You pay the pharmacy separately for any medication.

See full pricing breakdown

FAQ

Common questions about panic attacks

Are panic attacks dangerous?
The attacks themselves aren't dangerous, though they feel frightening. Because the symptoms overlap with heart problems, a first or severe episode should be assessed to rule out physical causes.
What's the best treatment?
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is highly effective for panic and is available free via NHS Talking Therapies. Medication (an SSRI) can help in panic disorder, usually alongside therapy.
How do I stop a panic attack?
Slow breathing (longer out-breaths), grounding your attention on your surroundings, and reminding yourself it will pass all help. These techniques improve with practice.
Will I need medication?
Not always. Many people improve with techniques and CBT. For frequent attacks or panic disorder, an SSRI can help, and we'll discuss whether it's right for you.
See all conditions we can help with

Ready to talk to a GP about panic attacks?

Message Emily on WhatsApp or book online in under 90 seconds. UK-registered doctors, available today.

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