Panic Disorder is an anxiety disorder which begins with a series of panic attacks. A panic attack is a period of intense fear, discomfort and apprehension. The attacks often are described as experiencing extreme terror in a situation where this is not called for. Panic attacks occur without warning and often involve a fear of losing control, dying or going crazy. People who struggle with panic will often attempt to avoid situations that have triggered previous attacks in an attempt to prevent more panic attacks. Agoraphobia can develop in people with panic disorder. Agoraphobia is a fear of leaving one’s home or going out in public due to previous experiences of panic outside the home.

Physical Symptoms of Panic Attack
• sweating
• rapid heart beat
• chest pain
• nausea
• diarrhea
• shortness of breath
• trembling or shaking
• feeling faint
• difficulty swallowing
• chills or hot flashes

Panic Disorder in Children

Panic disorder is not common in children but can begin during teenage years. The diagnostic criteria are two unexpected panic attacks with at least one month of fear of having another attack and/or losing control. The definition of panic attack in children and teens is the same as for adults. Developing avoidant behaviors to try to deal with apprehension in situations where previous panic attacks have occurred can also be present.

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Panic Disorder

: an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent unexpected panic attacks followed by a month or more of worry about their recurrence, implications, or consequences or by a change in behavior related to the panic attacks.