TMS for Panic Disorder in Houston, TX
Panic disorder can turn ordinary moments into sudden, terrifying episodes of fear that strike without warning. If panic attacks are limiting where you go and what you do, help is available. At Houston West TMS, board-certified psychiatrist and Brainsway Deep TMS specialist Dr. William K. Drell offers noninvasive Deep TMS as an option for patients with panic disorder. Please note that TMS for panic disorder is considered off-label and is not covered by insurance.
Request a TMS AppointmentWhat are the symptoms of panic disorder?
A panic attack often comes on suddenly and may include:
- A racing or pounding heart
- Sweating, trembling, or shaking
- Shortness of breath or a feeling of choking
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or feeling faint
- A sense of impending doom or loss of control
- Numbness or tingling sensations
Between attacks, people with panic disorder often live with ongoing anxiety and may begin avoiding places or situations where attacks have occurred.
How is panic disorder treated?
Panic disorder is typically treated with a combination of psychotherapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy, and medication such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs. These approaches help many people, but some do not achieve full relief or cannot tolerate medication side effects. For these patients, Deep TMS offers a noninvasive alternative.
How does Deep TMS help panic disorder?
Deep TMS uses brief magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain regions involved in fear, mood, and emotional regulation. By modulating activity in these areas, Deep TMS may help reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks and the anticipatory anxiety that surrounds them. Because panic disorder frequently coexists with depression, treatment may also help address co-occurring mood symptoms. The procedure is noninvasive, requires no sedation, and allows you to resume your day immediately.
To learn more about how the technology works, explore our Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and Brainsway Deep TMS pages, or read about related treatments such as TMS for Anxiety and TMS for Depression.
If panic attacks are interfering with your life, you do not have to face them alone. Call Houston West TMS at (713) 464-4455 or request a consultation online today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can TMS help with panic disorder?
TMS may help reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks by stimulating the brain regions involved in fear and emotional regulation. It is used off-label for panic disorder and may also address co-occurring depression.
Is TMS for panic disorder FDA approved?
TMS is not FDA approved specifically for panic disorder and is considered off-label. As a result, it is generally not covered by insurance. Dr. Drell can discuss self-pay options during your consultation.
What does a panic attack feel like?
A panic attack often involves a racing heart, sweating, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, dizziness, and an overwhelming sense of doom or loss of control. Symptoms come on suddenly and can feel like a medical emergency.
How is panic disorder usually treated?
Panic disorder is typically treated with cognitive behavioral therapy and medication. When these approaches do not provide full relief or cause intolerable side effects, Deep TMS can be a noninvasive alternative.
Can Deep TMS treat both panic and depression?
Yes. Because panic disorder frequently coexists with depression, Deep TMS may help address both. Dr. Drell tailors treatment to target the brain regions associated with your specific symptoms.
How do I schedule a consultation for panic disorder?
You can schedule a consultation by calling (713) 464-4455 or requesting an appointment online. Dr. Drell will evaluate your symptoms and determine whether Deep TMS is appropriate for you.