Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks. At least one of the panic attacks is followed by at least a month of one or both of the following symptoms:
Persistent concern or worry about additional panic attacks or their consequences
Significant maladaptive change in behavior related to the attack (e.g., avoidance).
Panic disorder symptoms must not be attributed to the effects of substance use or other medical conditions. Many people with panic disorder often have little idea when a panic attack might happen and become terrified of their own internal sensations of dizziness, heart palpitations, or other panic attack symptoms. Some people with panic disorder may believe their symptoms are attributed to a heart condition or illness. Most people with panic disorder fear the onset of more panic attacks.
People with panic disorder might avoid situations in which they may have panic symptoms. Some people with panic disorder may thus be diagnosed with agoraphobia. About half of those with panic disorder develop agoraphobia. 3-4% of people would experience panic disorder in their lifetime. It is often acute and appears in the mid-teens to mid-30s.
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