What Happens During a Panic Attack?
A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear that triggers severe physical reactions — even when there is no real danger. The body's fight-or-flight response fires without warning, flooding the system with adrenaline.
Attacks typically peak within 10 minutes and resolve within 20–30 minutes. They can happen anywhere — at home, at work, in a crowd, even during sleep.
When panic attacks recur and you start worrying about having more attacks — or changing your behaviour to avoid them — this becomes Panic Disorder, a diagnosed medical condition that requires treatment.
"Panic attacks are not dangerous — but they feel extremely frightening. The good news is that with the right treatment, most patients achieve complete freedom from panic attacks." — Dr. Debolina Chowdhury, MD Psychiatry
Common Symptoms of a Panic Attack:
Panic Attack vs Anxiety Attack — What's the Difference?
Many patients confuse panic attacks with anxiety. Dr. Debolina Chowdhury explains the key differences:
⚡ Panic Attack
😰 Anxiety Attack
Both conditions are treated at Nirvana Clinic. See our Anxiety Treatment page →
How Dr. Debolina Treats Panic Disorder
Dr. Debolina Chowdhury uses an evidence-based, personalised approach combining the most effective therapies for panic disorder.
Comprehensive Psychiatric Assessment
Dr. Debolina conducts a thorough evaluation to confirm the diagnosis, assess severity, identify triggers and rule out other conditions (thyroid disorders, cardiac issues, caffeine excess). A personalised treatment plan is created for every patient.
Psychoeducation — Understanding Your Panic
The first and most powerful step in treatment. Understanding exactly what happens in your body during a panic attack — and why it is NOT dangerous — significantly reduces fear. Most patients feel immediate relief just from understanding the physiology.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT is the gold standard treatment for panic disorder with a success rate of over 80%. Dr. Debolina uses CBT to help patients identify and challenge the catastrophic thoughts that fuel panic attacks, and gradually reduce avoidance behaviours.
Breathing Retraining & Relaxation Techniques
Hyperventilation during panic attacks worsens symptoms. Dr. Debolina teaches diaphragmatic breathing and progressive muscle relaxation — practical tools patients can use immediately during an attack.
Medication (When Needed)
For moderate to severe panic disorder, a short course of SSRIs (e.g. Escitalopram, Sertraline) alongside CBT produces the best outcomes. Dr. Debolina prescribes the lowest effective dose, monitors for side effects, and plans a tapering strategy from the start.
What to Expect from Panic Disorder Treatment
Most patients see significant improvement within 8–12 weeks. Here's a typical treatment timeline:
Assessment & Psychoeducation
Diagnosis confirmed. Treatment plan created. Many patients feel immediate relief from understanding what panic attacks are and why they are not dangerous.
CBT & Skills Building
Weekly CBT sessions. Breathing techniques practised. Gradual exposure to feared situations begins. Frequency and intensity of attacks reduces significantly.
Consolidation & Freedom
Most patients achieve significant reduction or complete freedom from panic attacks. Relapse prevention strategies are put in place for long-term resilience.
Panic Attack Treatment in Greater Noida — Your Questions Answered
Also at Nirvana Clinic
Panic Attack Clinic in Greater Noida
Sun Twilight Mall,
Opp. Delta 1 Metro Station,
Greater Noida, UP 201308
Sunday: Closed
Ready to Break Free from
Panic Attacks?
Book a confidential consultation with Dr. Debolina Chowdhury (MD Psychiatry) at Nirvana Clinic, Greater Noida. Most patients achieve significant relief within 8–12 weeks.