Panic Disorder

Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder. It causes panic attacks, which are sudden feelings of terror when there is no real danger. People with panic disorder may feel as if they are losing control, and they may experience physical symptoms of fear and anxiety, including a fast heartbeat, chest or stomach pain, breathing difficulty, or sweating.

Panic attacks can happen anytime, anywhere, and without warning. People may live in fear of attacks and may avoid places where they have had an attack. For some people, fear takes over their lives and they cannot leave their homes.

Panic disorder is more common in women than men. It usually starts when people are young adults. Sometimes it starts when a person is under a lot of stress. Panic disorder is often accompanied by other serious problems, such as depression, drug abuse, or alcoholism. These conditions need to be treated in order to effectively manage the panic disorder. Most people with panic disorder get better with treatment, which can include therapy and medicines.

The cause of panic disorder is not fully understood. It is likely caused by a combination of genetics, stress, temperament, and changes in brain function. Panic disorder sometimes runs in families, but it is not clear why.

Talk with your doctor if panic attacks are recurrent or you fear having another. Because a first attack can mimic a heart attack, seek emergency care the first time you have chest pain or trouble breathing to rule out a heart problem.