Panic disorder
Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by recurring, unexpected panic attacks and constant fear of future episodes. These sudden bouts of intense fear often trigger severe physical reactions despite no real danger or apparent cause.
Overview
Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by recurring, unexpected panic attacks and constant fear of future episodes. These sudden bouts of intense fear often trigger severe physical reactions despite no real danger or apparent cause.
Symptoms
Click any symptom to analyzeCauses
- •Genetics and family history
- •Major life stress or trauma
- •Changes in brain function
- •History of childhood abuse
Risk factors
- •Family history of panic attacks
- •Significant life changes or stress
- •Traumatic events
- •Smoking or excessive caffeine intake
How it progresses
3 stages- Stage 1 — EarlyMild or intermittent symptoms; easily mistaken for something minor.Often missed
- Stage 2 — ProgressiveSymptoms become more frequent or severe.
- Stage 3 — EstablishedDaily life affected; medical care strongly recommended.
How it's diagnosed
- •Physical examination
- •Blood tests to check thyroid
- •Psychological evaluation
- •DSM-5 diagnostic criteria
Treatment options
General educational information only — no dosage advice. Always follow guidance from a qualified clinician.
- •Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- •Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- •Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
- •Exposure therapy
- •Practicing deep breathing techniques
- •Regular physical exercise
- •Limiting caffeine and alcohol
- •Establishing a regular sleep routine
Complications
- •Long-term damage if untreated
- •Heart strain
- •Reduced oxygen delivery
- •Risk of cardiac event
- •Recurrence of panic disorder
Prevention
- •Don't smoke
- •Stay physically active
- •Manage blood pressure and cholesterol
When to seek help
- •Symptoms persist beyond a few days
- •Symptoms interfere with daily activities
- •New or worsening symptoms appear
- •Concerning changes related to panic disorder
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
- Chest pain that feels like a heart attack
- Inability to function in daily life
- Increasing frequency of attacks
In any emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department.
Real-world questions
- ›Can Panic disorder feel like a heart attack?
- ›Can Panic disorder cause headaches?
- ›Is Panic disorder reversible?
- ›How quickly does Panic disorder progress?
- ›Is Panic disorder hereditary?
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Frequently asked questions
Possible causes of Panic disorder include Genetics and family history, Major life stress or trauma, Changes in brain function, History of childhood abuse.
Panic disorder can be serious and may require prompt medical attention, especially if symptoms are severe or worsening.
Duration varies between individuals. Many cases improve with appropriate care, while others may persist longer and require ongoing management.
Panic disorder typically benefits from medical evaluation and should not be ignored.
Consider seeing a clinician if symptoms are severe, persistent, worsening, or if you have any concerns related to general.
Sources
Information based on general medical references such as:
Last reviewed: May 2026