Panic Disorder, Overcoming with Korean Medicine Treatment

To those suffering from Panic Disorder

Hello, I am Choi Yeon-seung, the head director of Baekrokdam Korean Medicine Clinic. Today, I would like to discuss panic disorder, which many people experience. I hope this will be helpful to those who find daily life difficult due to sudden panic attacks.

Panic Disorder, what symptoms does it manifest?

Whenever I go outside, I feel suffocated and overwhelmed by a fear that my heart might burst. I can't even use public transportation, let alone go to crowded places.

Panic disorder is characterized by extreme fear and anxiety that strikes without warning. It is often accompanied by physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, and numbness in the hands and feet. The anxiety of not knowing when an attack might occur can make people reluctant to go out, and interpersonal relationships can easily become strained.

Where does the root of panic disorder lie?

Panic disorder is not a simple anxiety disorder, but a complex mental illness. It typically develops in people in their 20s and 30s and is more common in women. Genetic factors, serotonin imbalance in the brain, and stress are cited as primary causes. In particular, chronic stress can overactivate the sympathetic nervous system, sometimes triggering panic attacks.

Panic Disorder viewed from Korean Medicine

In Korean medicine, panic disorder is seen as an imbalance of mind and body. When qi (vital energy) becomes stagnant due to sudden stress, symptoms such as heart palpitations and shortness of breath appear. It is approached by differentiation of syndromes such as Liver Qi Stagnation and Heart-Spleen Qi Deficiency. Chronic stress can impair the function of the internal organs, disrupting the harmony of the mind and body. This is diagnosed as Kidney Qi Deficiency, Heart-Kidney Deficiency, etc.

Hanbang Treatment for Finding Inner Peace

At Baekrokdam Korean Medicine Clinic, we suppress overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system and promote mind-body stability through personalized herbal medicine prescriptions based on syndrome differentiation and treatment. We combine acupuncture treatment, which helps improve autonomic nervous system imbalance, and moxibustion therapy, which is effective for relaxation. Our ultimate treatment goal is to enhance resistance to stress by utilizing various therapeutic methods such as pharmacopuncture, which is beneficial for improving anxiety and depression, and meridian massage.

Extensive Clinical Experience and Communication with Patients are Baekrokdam's Strength

As a Korean Medicine doctor, I have treated various mental disorders, including panic disorder, for 16 years. My unique know-how is to embrace the advantages of modern medicine and harmoniously integrate them with traditional prescriptions. Above all, we provide personalized treatment that comprehensively considers each patient's symptoms, constitution, and psychological state. Delicate treatment that involves close communication with patients throughout the entire process, nurturing their emotional well-being – this is what Baekrokdam Korean Medicine Clinic prides itself on.

People who escaped panic and regained hope in life

I was overwhelmed by the despair that I would never be able to stop taking medication, but now I feel like I can live confidently without fear of attacks.

Ms. A, a female patient in her 30s who received Hanbang treatment for 6 months, reported a significant reduction in the frequency of attacks, making her interpersonal relationships and social life much smoother. Mr. B, a male patient in his 40s who had shown no improvement despite years of pharmacotherapy, saw his anxiety symptoms improve with herbal medicine tailored to his constitution, allowing him to return to daily life. We feel rewarded by the patients' testimonials that treatment at Baekrokdam helped them regain hope in life.

Preventing Panic Disorder with Pharmacotherapy and Lifestyle Management

Pharmacotherapy, such as anxiolytics and antidepressants, is primarily used for the treatment of panic disorder. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are the first-line medication. Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and relaxation techniques, is more effective when combined. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, abstinence from alcohol and caffeine, and stress management help alleviate symptoms. Practicing breathing exercises or meditation to calm the mind and body is also a good method.

The Path to Holistic Healing with Hanbang Treatment

I'm afraid the symptoms will recur if I stop taking the medication. It's terrible to think I have to take medicine for the rest of my life.

While pharmacotherapy offers quick effects, long-term use raises concerns about side effects. Hanbang treatment aids in more fundamental improvement through personalized prescriptions that consider an individual's constitution. Furthermore, its advantage lies in preventing recurrence by restoring mind-body harmony. Baekrokdam Korean Medicine Clinic combines the strengths of modern medicine and traditional medicine to offer hope to those suffering from panic disorder. If you wish to live a healthy life without relying on medication, please knock on our door anytime.