Panic Disorder
Panic disorder is more than an isolated panic attack: it involves recurrent unexpected attacks followed by persistent fear, behavioural change or both.
What happens during panic
A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear or discomfort that builds quickly. It may include a racing heart, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, dizziness, nausea, chills, numbness, a sense of unreality or fear of losing control or dying.
These sensations can be frightening, but panic disorder is defined by the wider pattern: concern about further attacks or changes such as avoiding exercise, travel or unfamiliar places. Not every panic attack means panic disorder.
Assessment matters
New, severe or unexplained chest pain, fainting, breathing difficulty or other physical symptoms need appropriate medical assessment. A mental health professional then explores when attacks occur, how they affect life, whether avoidance has developed, and whether another condition, medicine or substance better explains the symptoms.
Agoraphobia may occur with or without panic disorder. Social anxiety, trauma-related symptoms, health anxiety and some medical conditions can look similar, which is why self-diagnosis is unreliable.
Treatment and recovery
CBT is an established treatment. It can help a person understand the panic cycle, reinterpret bodily sensations more accurately and gradually reduce avoidance. Exposure is planned collaboratively and is not about forcing someone into an overwhelming situation. A doctor may also discuss medication when appropriate.