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Panic Attacks Treatment in Johor Bahru

Serangan Panik

A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear or discomfort that peaks within minutes and includes multiple physical and psychological symptoms. The physical symptoms — chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, tingling, and racing heart — are so convincing that many patients believe they are having a heart attack. Panic disorder (recurrent unexpected panic attacks with persistent worry about future attacks) affects approximately 2-3% of the population. In Malaysia, stigma around mental health often delays diagnosis and treatment, leading to unnecessary investigations and avoidance behaviours.

Symptoms of Panic Attacks

Sudden racing or pounding heartbeat (palpitations)
Shortness of breath or feeling smothered
Chest pain or tightness
Dizziness, lightheadedness, or faintness
Tingling or numbness in hands, feet, or face
Intense fear of dying, losing control, or going mad
Trembling, sweating, and chills during the episode

⚠️ When to See a Doctor

See a doctor to rule out medical causes of panic-like symptoms — chest pain should always be assessed to exclude cardiac causes. Once medical causes are excluded, a mental health assessment helps diagnose panic disorder. Seek help if panic attacks are recurrent, cause significant avoidance of activities or places, or are affecting your work or relationships.

Treatment at Klinik Muhibbah

At Klinik Muhibbah, Masai, our doctors perform a thorough assessment to exclude cardiac and thyroid causes of panic-like symptoms (ECG, blood tests). Once medical causes are excluded, we provide psychoeducation about panic disorder, prescribe SSRI medication as first-line treatment, and refer for cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Book at movo-x.com/kiosk/muhibbah.

👨‍⚕️ Dr. Prabagaran Kanapathy
M.D(UNPAD) OHD(NIOSH) | MMC 63651
👨‍⚕️ Dr. Kirubah Sai Patnaik
MMC 93850

Prevention Tips

1Practice regular deep breathing exercises and diaphragmatic breathing techniques
2Engage in regular aerobic exercise — proven to reduce panic attack frequency and severity
3Reduce caffeine and alcohol which lower the threshold for panic attacks
4Learn cognitive restructuring techniques to challenge catastrophic thoughts during attacks
5Maintain consistent sleep schedule — sleep deprivation worsens anxiety and panic disorder

More on Mental Health & Sleep

Other conditions we see and treat at Klinik Muhibbah in Masai, Johor.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I am having a panic attack or a heart attack?
This distinction can be difficult without medical assessment. Panic attacks typically peak quickly (within 10 minutes), occur in younger people without cardiac risk factors, and resolve spontaneously. However, chest pain with exertion, radiation to the arm or jaw, and older age with cardiac risk factors suggest cardiac causes. Always get assessed by a doctor to be safe. Book at movo-x.com/kiosk/muhibbah.
Can panic attacks be cured?
Yes. Panic disorder is highly treatable. SSRIs (antidepressants used for anxiety) significantly reduce attack frequency, and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) teaches skills to break the panic cycle. With appropriate treatment, most patients experience dramatic improvement or complete resolution of panic attacks. Our doctors at Klinik Muhibbah provide both pharmacological treatment and referral for CBT. Book at movo-x.com/kiosk/muhibbah.
Will I need medication for panic disorder?
Not always, but SSRIs are often recommended for moderate to severe panic disorder. They are non-addictive, taken daily (not during attacks), and work by reducing overall anxiety levels over 4-6 weeks. Short-term benzodiazepines may be used for acute control. Our doctors will discuss all options and tailor treatment to your needs at Klinik Muhibbah.

Get Panic Attacks Treatment Today

No. 62, Jalan Kiambang, Taman Bunga Raya, 81700 Masai, Johor

Mon–Thu & Sat: 9AM–9PM | Fri: 9AM–3PM | Sun: 9AM–1PM | Walk-ins Welcome