How to prepare for a video visit about Panic Attacks - Triage

Audience: adult

Panic attacks are sudden episodes of intense fear that can cause physical symptoms like a racing heart, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Preparing for a video visit about panic attacks can help you get the most from your appointment. During the visit, a healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any triggers you have noticed. They may also discuss ways to manage panic attacks and when to seek further care. Telemedicine can be a helpful first step to understand your symptoms and get advice, but it cannot replace emergency care if you have severe or life-threatening symptoms. Being ready with your questions and information will help your provider support you better.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Chest pain or pressure that does not go away — seek emergency care immediately.
• Difficulty breathing or choking sensation that worsens — call emergency services.
• Loss of consciousness, severe confusion, or inability to stay awake — get urgent medical help.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of panic attack symptoms.
• Providing education about panic attacks and coping strategies.
• Discussing medication options and referrals to mental health specialists.
• Monitoring ongoing symptoms and treatment response.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Diagnosing or treating life-threatening emergencies.
• Performing physical examinations that require in-person evaluation.
• Administering emergency interventions for severe symptoms.
• Providing controlled substance prescriptions without prior in-person assessment.

What Are Panic Attacks?

Panic attacks are sudden feelings of intense fear or discomfort that reach a peak within minutes. Symptoms may include a fast heartbeat, sweating, shaking, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, dizziness, or a feeling of losing control. They can happen unexpectedly or in response to a trigger.

How Telemedicine Can Help

A video visit allows you to talk with a healthcare provider about your panic attacks from home. They can ask about your symptoms, help identify possible causes, and suggest ways to manage or reduce attacks. Telemedicine is convenient and can be a good first step to get support.

What to Expect During Your Video Visit

Your provider will ask about your symptoms, how often panic attacks occur, and any factors that seem to trigger them. They may also review your medical history and current medications. You can discuss your concerns and ask questions about treatment options, coping strategies, and when to seek emergency care.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Make a list of your symptoms and when they happen. Note any possible triggers or recent stressful events. Write down any questions or concerns you have. Ensure your device is charged and you have a quiet, private space for the visit. Have a family member or friend nearby if you want support.

When to Seek Emergency Care

If you experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, fainting, severe confusion, or symptoms that feel life-threatening, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. These signs may indicate a medical emergency rather than a panic attack.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List your symptoms and when they occur.
• Note any known triggers or stressful events.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss.
• Ensure your device is charged and has a good internet connection.
• Find a quiet, private space for the video visit.
• Have a family member or friend available if you want support during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and advice given by your provider.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes.
• Schedule follow-up appointments as recommended.
• Seek emergency care if you experience red flag symptoms.
• Consider counseling or therapy referrals if suggested.
• Practice coping strategies discussed during the visit.

FAQs

What causes panic attacks?

Panic attacks can be triggered by stress, anxiety disorders, certain medical conditions, or sometimes happen without a clear cause. They involve a sudden activation of the body's fight-or-flight response.

Can panic attacks be treated through telemedicine?

Yes, telemedicine can help assess your symptoms, provide education, suggest coping strategies, and discuss treatment options. However, severe or emergency cases require in-person care.

What should I do if I have a panic attack during the video visit?

Try to stay calm and breathe slowly and deeply. Inform your provider about your symptoms. If symptoms worsen or feel life-threatening, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Are panic attacks dangerous?

Panic attacks themselves are not usually dangerous but can be very frightening. However, some symptoms may mimic serious conditions like heart problems, so it is important to get evaluated.

How can I prepare for my video visit about panic attacks?

Prepare a list of your symptoms, triggers, and questions. Ensure your device and internet connection are working well. Find a quiet, private space to talk openly with your provider.

Sources

1. Panic Attacks — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Panic Disorder — Mayo Clinic.
3. Anxiety and Panic Attacks — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Panic Disorder: Diagnosis and Treatment — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If you have severe or life-threatening symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.