Panic disorder

What is panic disorder?

The core symptom of panic disorder is recurrent panic attacks, an overwhelming combination of physical and psychological distress. During an attack several of these symptoms occur in combination:

• Palpitations, pounding heart, or rapid heart rate

• Sweating

• Trembling or shaking

• Feeling of shortness of breath or smothering sensations

• Chest pain

• Feeling dizzy, light-headed, or faint

• Feeling of choking

• Numbness or tingling

• Chills or hot flashes

• Nausea or abdominal pains

• Feeling detached

• Fear of losing control

• Fear of dying

Because the symptoms are so severe, many people who experience a panic attack may believe they are having a heart attack or other life-threatening illness. They may go to a hospital emergency department. Panic attacks may be expected, such as a response to a feared object, or unexpected, apparently occurring for no reason.

https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/anxiety-disorders/what-are-anxiety-disorders