Panic Disorder

People with panic disorder have sudden and repeated attacks of fear that last for several minutes or longer. These attacks are characterized by a fear of disaster or of losing control even when there is no real danger. A person may also have a strong physical reaction during an attack. It may feel like they are having a heart attack and can occur at any time. Many people with panic disorder worry about and dread the possibility of having another attack. People with panic disorder may have:

Physical symptoms may include:

• Weakness or dizziness
• Pounding/racing heart
• Tingly/numb hands
• Sweat/chills
• Chest/stomach pain
• Stomach pain
• Trembling/nausea
• Difficulty breathing

• Sudden and repeated attacks of overwhelming anxiety and fear
• Feeling of loss of control or impending doom
• Intense worry about the next attack 
• Fear/avoidance of places where attacks occur