Red Flags & When to Go In Person for Panic Attacks - Triage

Audience: adult

Panic attacks can cause sudden, intense feelings of fear and physical symptoms like a racing heart, shortness of breath, or dizziness. While many panic attacks are not life-threatening, some symptoms may signal a more serious health problem that needs urgent medical attention. This guide helps you understand when to seek in-person care versus when telemedicine can support your needs. Recognizing red flags such as chest pain, fainting, or confusion is important. Telemedicine can help with initial assessment, education, and ongoing support for panic attacks, but it cannot replace emergency care or detailed physical exams. Preparing for your tele-visit by noting your symptoms and any triggers can improve the quality of your care. After your visit, following recommended steps and monitoring your health are key. Remember, this information is for education only and not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Chest pain or pressure that may feel like a heart attack — seek emergency care immediately.
• Fainting, loss of consciousness, or confusion — go to the emergency room right away.
• Sudden weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking — call emergency services immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment for panic attacks
• Providing education about panic attacks and anxiety management
• Guidance on coping strategies and relaxation techniques
• Referrals for in-person evaluation when needed

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency evaluation of chest pain or stroke symptoms
• Physical examination and diagnostic testing
• Management of severe or life-threatening symptoms
• Administration of medications or urgent interventions

What Are Panic Attacks?

Panic attacks are sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort that peak within minutes. They often include symptoms like a pounding heart, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, dizziness, or feelings of losing control. These attacks can be very frightening but are usually not dangerous by themselves.

When to Seek In-Person Care

Some symptoms during a panic attack may indicate a more serious condition requiring immediate medical attention. Go to an emergency room or call emergency services if you experience:

These signs may suggest heart problems, stroke, or other urgent health issues.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine allows you to speak with a healthcare provider remotely. It can help by:

Telemedicine is a useful first step but cannot perform physical exams or emergency tests.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

To make the most of your tele-visit:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your symptoms and when they started.
• Note any possible triggers or stressful events.
• List current medications and medical conditions.
• Ensure a private, quiet space for the tele-visit.
• Test your internet or phone connection beforehand.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any advice or referrals given by your healthcare provider.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes.
• Practice recommended coping and relaxation techniques.
• Seek in-person care if red-flag symptoms develop.
• Schedule follow-up appointments as advised.

FAQs

What causes panic attacks?

Panic attacks often result from a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. Stress, certain medical conditions, or anxiety disorders may trigger them, but sometimes no clear cause is found.

Can panic attacks be dangerous?

Panic attacks themselves are usually not dangerous, but their symptoms can mimic serious conditions like heart attacks. It's important to rule out other health problems, especially if you have risk factors for heart or lung disease.

How can I manage a panic attack when it happens?

Try to breathe slowly and deeply, focus on grounding yourself by noticing your surroundings, and remind yourself that the attack will pass. Relaxation techniques and mindfulness can help reduce symptoms.

When should I see a doctor in person?

Seek in-person care if you have chest pain, fainting, confusion, or neurological symptoms like weakness or numbness. Also, if panic attacks become frequent or severely affect your daily life, professional evaluation is important.

Sources

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

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you experience any red-flag symptoms or feel your condition is urgent, seek emergency medical attention immediately.