Panic disorder

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Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder that causes repeated, unexpected attacks of intense fear. These attacks may last from minutes to hours.

See also: Generalized anxiety disorder

Panic attacks

The exact cause of a panic disorder is unknown. Genetics may play a role in this disorder. Studies suggest that if one identical twin has panic disorder, 40% of the time, the other twin will also develop the condition. However, panic disorder also often occurs in family members who are not blood relatives.

Panic disorder occurs twice as often in women as in men. A person with panic disorder often lives in fear of another attack and may be afraid to be alone or to be far from medical help.

Symptoms usually begin before the age 25. Although panic disorder may occur in children, it is often not diagnosed until you are older. Persons with this condition often have medical tests and exams for symptoms related to heart attack or other conditions before a diagnosis of panic disorder is made.

Review Date: 07/25/2006
Reviewed By: Paul Ballas, D.O., Department of Psychiatry, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.