Panic Disorder

Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks. These panic attacks are typically followed by at least one month of persistent worry about experiencing additional panic episodes or the consequences of these attacks. Panic attacks are sudden, intense surges of anxiety that often occur without a specific trigger or warning and can last for several minutes to half an hour. In between these attacks, individuals may appear relatively well until the next episode.

 

In severe cases, some patients may experience multiple panic attacks in a day, leading to a strong fear of having another attack. This fear can result in avoiding places where escape might be difficult or where help may not be readily available, which is characteristic of agoraphobia. Panic disorder can also be complicated by social phobia, depression, and substance abuse, and in some cases, individuals with panic disorder may have thoughts of suicide.