Panic disorder involves repeated, unpredictable attacks of intense fear accompanied by severe anxiety symptoms in the body that may last from minutes to hours.
Panic disorder occurs twice as often in women as in men. Approximately 2% of the population is affected each year. A person with panic disorder often lives in fear of another attack and may be reluctant to be alone or to be far from medical assistanc
With panic disorder, at least 4 of the following symptoms abruptly occur within 10 minutes, and attacks may be followed by at least a month of persistent fear of having another attack.
- Sensation of shortness of breath or smothering.
- Dizziness or faintness.
- Palpitations or pounding heart.
- Trembling or shaking.
- Sweating, chills, or hot flashes.
- Feeling of choking.
- Nausea or upset stomach.
- Numbness or tingling.
- Chest pain or discomfort.
- Fear of dying.
- Fear of losing control.
- Feelings of unreality.
- Feelings of detachment
There are often extreme changes in behavior -- at home, school, work, or with family. People with the disorder often worry about the significance of their panic attacks -- they may think they are "going crazy" or having a heart attack.
Call Counselors of Texas for an appointment if panic attacks are interfering with work, relationships, or self-esteem.
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