Panic disorder

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A panic attack is a sudden rush of overwhelming fear that comes often without warning and without any obvious reason. Intense anxiety may develop between attacks because of their unpredictable nature. This persistent fear is a symptom of panic disorder.

A panic attack is a common symptom of many anxiety disorders.

A panic attack can be very frightening but is not dangerous.

The symptoms often include a sense of unreality, feelings of impending doom or fear of dying.

Panic attacks arise most commonly between the ages of 15 and 25, but it can develop at any age. Twice as many women as men are affected by panic disorder. At least 1 in 10 people have occasional panic attacks. Incidence of chronic panic disorder is approximately 2%.

Without treatment panic disorder and panic attacks may lead to phobias, depression or substance abuse.

Panic attacks can occur with or without agoraphobia. Recurrent panic attacks i.e. panic disorder, may become associated with the places in which they occur. As the individual attempts to avoid these situations agoraphobia may develop.

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