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Sensitivity to seasonal changes in panic disorder patients
Toshiyuki Ohtani1, Hisanobu Kaiya, Takeshi Utsumi
1Research Center for Panic Disorder, Nagoya Nental Clinic, Nagoya, and Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Japan.
Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences
|May 31, 2006
Summary
Panic disorder symptoms fluctuate seasonally, with increased panic attacks in August and December. Patients with panic disorder show heightened sensitivity to seasonal changes, potentially aiding in developing preventive strategies.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Environmental Psychology
Background:
- Seasonal factors and weather changes may influence panic disorder symptoms.
- Limited research exists on the impact of seasonality on panic disorder.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate panic disorder patient sensitivity to seasonal changes.
- To examine seasonal fluctuations in panic disorder symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of self-rating questionnaires (SPAQ) in 146 Japanese panic disorder patients.
- Assessment of Global Seasonality Scores (GSS) and panic attack frequency.
Main Results:
- Average GSS was 12.5+/-4.7; 25.3% of patients indicated potential seasonal affective disorder.
- Panic attack frequency peaked in August and December (P=0.005, P=0.01).
Conclusions:
- Panic disorder patients exhibit increased sensitivity to seasonal and meteorological factors.
- Patients may become more vulnerable during specific seasons, suggesting a need for targeted preventive measures.
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