Panic Disorder

The Oxford Medical Dictionary's definition of this disorder is as follows:

"panic disorder a condition featuring recurrent brief episodes of acute distress, mental confusion, and fear of impending death. The heart beats rapidly, breathing is deep and fast, and sweating occurs. Over-breathing (hyperventilation) often makes the attack worse. These panic attacks usually occur about twice a week but may be more frequent and they are especially common in people with *agoraphobia. The condition appears to be an organic disorder with a strong psychological component. Treatment is with *antidepressant drugs. *Behavior therapy can also be helpful."

It's a condition where a person has had and continues to have panic attacks on a fairly regular basis.

There are several criteria that are used by doctors to determine whether or not it is panic disorder (just because a person has panic attacks does not mean that they have panic disorder -- they have to meet pre-determined criteria first). What are the symptoms of panic disorder?

If you have been diagnosed with this condition, you can feel confident that there are many, many, many, other people that have received the same diagnosis. You may even know someone personally.

If you have not been diagnosed with, but you think you might have this condition, talk to your doctor. Once you've obtained diagnosis, treatment can begin.

There are many fears that can trigger regular panic attacks. Things such as a fear of flying, fear of dying, fear of heights, and a fear of public speaking can all be triggers for panic attacks. However, a person may experience panic attacks due to these fears and may or may not have panic disorder.

Return from Panic Disorder to My-Panic-Attacks.com Home