What is Panic Disorder?

Panic disorder is a mental illness that causes sudden and unexpected panic attacks, feelings of intense fear and anxiety that reach a peak within minutes.

Symptoms of a panic attack can include:

• Sweating
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Racing heart
• Feeling faint
• Numbness or tingling
• Chills or hot flashes
• Feeling detached from reality
• Fear of dying or losing control

How Common is Panic Disorder?

Panic disorder affects approximately 2.7% of adults in the United States. It is more common in women than men. Panic disorder usually begins in early adulthood, but it can also develop in childhood or later in life.

What Causes Panic Disorder?

The exact cause of panic disorder is unknown, but it is thought to be related to a combination of factors, including:

• Genetics: Panic disorder is more common in people who have a family history of the disorder.
• Brain chemistry: People with panic disorder may have an imbalance of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which are involved in mood regulation.
• Life experiences: Stressful or traumatic life events, such as childhood abuse or neglect, can increase the risk of developing panic disorder.

How is Panic Disorder Diagnosed?

Panic disorder is diagnosed based on a person's symptoms and a physical exam. Your doctor may also order blood tests or other tests to rule out other medical conditions that can cause similar symptoms.

How is Panic Disorder Treated?

Panic disorder is treated with a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Medication can help to reduce the frequency and severity of panic attacks. Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help people to learn how to manage their anxiety and cope with panic attacks.

Self-Help Strategies for Managing Panic Disorder

In addition to medication and psychotherapy, there are a number of things you can do to help manage panic disorder:

• Get regular exercise. Exercise can help to reduce stress and improve mood.
• Eat a healthy diet. Eating a healthy diet can help to improve your overall health and well-being.
• Get enough sleep. When you are sleep-deprived, you are more likely to experience anxiety and panic attacks.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Caffeine and alcohol can both worsen anxiety and panic attacks.
• Learn relaxation techniques. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
• Join a support group. Support groups can provide you with emotional support and information about panic disorder.

Living with panic disorder can be challenging, but there are things you can do to manage your symptoms and live a full and productive life. With the right treatment and self-help strategies, you can learn to control your panic attacks and reduce your anxiety.

Where Can I Get Help for Panic Disorder?

If you think you may have panic disorder, talk to your doctor. Your doctor can diagnose your condition and recommend treatment options. You can also find information about panic disorder and treatment options online at the websites of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA).