Panic Disorder - Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Panic disorder is characterized by the spontaneous and unexpected occurrence of panic attacks. Panic disorder is more common in women than men. It usually starts when people are young adults. Many of the symptoms that occur during a panic attack are the same as the symptoms of diseases of the heart, lungs, intestines or nervous system. Panic attacks are a period of intense fear in which 4 of 13 defined symptoms develop abruptly and peak rapidly less than 10 minutes from symptom onset. Panic disorder sufferers usually have a series of intense episodes of extreme anxiety , known as panic attacks . These attacks may last from several minutes to hours, and may vary in intensity and specific symptoms of panic over the duration (i.e. rapid heartbeat, perspiration, dizziness, dyspnea , trembling, psychological experience of uncontrollable fear, etc.). Panic disorder is usually qualified with the presence or absence of agoraphobia. Agoraphobia is defined as anxiety toward places or situations in which escape may be difficult or embarrassing. Children and adolescents with symptoms of panic attacks should first be evaluated by their family physician or pediatrician. In fact, many people have had problems with friends and family or lost jobs while struggling to cope with panic disorder. Panic attacks in children can be confused with many things. Common imitators are ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, thyroid disease, some prescription drugs, migraines, epilepsy, diabetes, drug abuse, and other psychiatric disorders.