Panic disorder

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Panic disorder

Panic disorder is a disabling mental condition in which a person has repeated, unexpected panic attacks and constantly worries about having another. Panic disorder, which usually starts in late adolescence or early adulthood and may last a lifetime, can interfere with work and social relationships if it is not treated.

Panic attacks have frightening but not life-threatening symptoms such as rapid breathing (hyperventilation) and a pounding heart. Often a person having a panic attack feels that he or she is losing control or dying. The strength of a panic attack usually peaks within 10 minutes, and most symptoms fade within 30 minutes.

Panic disorder can be treated with counseling and medications to help minimize or eliminate panic attacks and decrease the anxiety that accompanies the fear of future attacks. Early diagnosis and treatment of panic attacks can prevent other conditions associated with panic disorder, such as depression or substance abuse.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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