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Other Disorders
 

Panic Disorder

What is Panic Disorder?

Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder and is characterized by unexpected and repeated episodes of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms that may include chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, or abdominal distress. more>>

Signs & Symptoms

People with panic disorder have feelings of terror that strike suddenly and repeatedly with no warning. During a panic attack, most likely your heart will pound and you may feel sweaty, weak, faint, or dizzy. Your hands may tingle or feel numb, and you might feel flushed or chilled. You may have nausea, chest pain or smothering sensations, a sense of unreality, or fear of impending doom or loss of control. more>>

Treatment

Effective treatments for panic disorder are available, and research is yielding new, improved therapies that can help most people with panic disorder and other anxiety disorders lead productive, fulfilling lives. more>>

Getting Help: Locate Services

Locate mental health services in your area, affordable healthcare, NIMH clinical trials, and listings of professionals and organizations. more>>

Related Information
  • Panic Disorder Information from NLM's MedlinePlus, in English and Spanish
  • Some mental illnesses also carry an increased risk for suicide.
Publications/Resource Materials

Read, print, or order NIMH booklets, fact sheets, and other publications on panic disorder such as:

Panic Disorder
An easy-to-read booklet on panic disorder that explains what it is, when it starts, how long it lasts, and how to get help—includes a self-test.

Facts about Panic Disorder
A fact sheet with a brief description of panic disorder and its treatment.

Anxiety Disorders
A detailed booklet that describes the symptoms, causes, and treatments, of the major anxiety disorders, with information on getting help and coping.

More Publications>>

Panic and Anxiety Disorders Research
 
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Updated: 08/31/2004
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