The Biological Explanations for Panic Disorder
At present, the precise reason behind the occurrence of panic disorder is uncertain. Nonetheless, there are several theories that consider various factors while analyzing the possible causes of panic disorder. In this article, we will delve into the biological theory of panic disorder.
The Biological Theory of Panic Disorder
Neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine are responsible for sending messages between different parts of the brain, which in turn can affect a person’s mood and anxiety levels.
One explanation for panic disorder is the biological theory, which suggests that an imbalance in these chemicals could contribute to the disorder.
This theory has gained support from the observation that panic symptoms can be reduced in patients when they take antidepressants that target brain chemistry.
Antidepressants for Panic Disorder
· Drugs like Paxil, Prozac, and Zoloft, known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are designed to raise the serotonin levels in the brain.
· SNRIs, such as Effexor (venlafaxine) and Cymbalta (duloxetine), increase the levels of both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain.
· Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), including Anafranil (clomipramine) and Elavil (amitriptyline), have an impact on serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine to a lesser degree.
· Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), including Nardil and Parnate, work by preventing the breakdown of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.
Additional Support for the Biological Theory
Antidepressants’ impact on the symptoms of panic disorder through biochemical changes is not the only evidence supporting the biological theory of panic disorder. Other studies suggest that an underlying biochemical alteration in the brain, such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and metabolic theories, could lead to the development of panic disorder.
Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)
GABA is a neurotransmitter in the brain that regulates anxiety levels by inhibiting excitatory signals and inducing relaxation.
GABA has been found to be involved in the development of many mental health issues, including anxiety and mood disorders. Anti-anxiety medications like benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), and clonazepam (Klonopin), work by targeting GABA receptors in the brain and enhancing their function, leading to a calm and relaxed state.
Studies have shown that individuals with panic disorder have lower levels of GABA compared to control subjects without a history of panic.
Further research on the role of GABA in mental health disorders could lead to the development of more effective treatment options for those who suffer from panic disorder.
Metabolic Theories and Panic Disorder
Metabolic studies investigate how the human body processes specific substances. These studies have revealed that individuals with panic disorder may be more sensitive to certain substances than those without this condition, providing further evidence for the biological theory. These findings suggest that individuals with panic disorder may have a different composition than non-affected individuals.
For instance, administering injections of lactic acid, a substance produced naturally by the body during physical activity, can trigger panic attacks in individuals with panic disorder. Similarly, studies have shown that breathing air with increased carbon dioxide levels or consuming caffeine, nicotine, or alcohol can also trigger panic attacks in individuals with the disorder.
What Does This All Mean?
Although research has provided some insights into the biological factors that contribute to panic disorder, there is no definitive laboratory test to diagnose this condition. The interaction between neurotransmitters in the brain and metabolic processes is intricate and complicated. It is possible that each of these theories plays a vital role in the development of panic disorder. Further research is necessary to better understand the biological basis of this disorder.
Many experts believe that panic disorder is the result of a combination of factors, including genetic and environmental influences. Understanding the causes of mental health disorders like panic disorder is crucial for diagnosis and selecting the most effective treatment options.
While knowing how biochemical processes can lead to panic disorder may not help in diagnosing the condition, it can be beneficial for individuals who are hesitant to take medication to manage their symptoms.
Like with panic disorder, many other mental health conditions have been stigmatized, and there are still prevailing attitudes that individuals should be able to overcome these conditions on their own.
However, as we learn more about the biochemical and metabolic theories behind panic disorder, it becomes clear that this belief is similar to suggesting that someone can recover from appendicitis with just a positive mindset.
Sources
· Goossens, L., Leibold, N., Peeters, R. et al. Brainstem Response to Hypercapnia: A Symptom Provocation Study into the Pathophysiology of Panic Disorder. Journal of Psychopharmacology. 2014. 28(5):449-56.
· Schur, R., Draisma, L., Wijnen, J. et al. Brain GABA Levels Across Psychiatric Disorders: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis of (1) H-MRS Studies. Human Brain Mapping. 2016. 37(9):3337-52.
· Zangrossi, H., and F. Graeff. Serotonin in Anxiety and Panic: Contributions of the Elevated T-Maze. Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews. 2014. 46 Pt 3:397-406.