Panic disorder

About Panic disorder

Panic disorder is defined by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks — sudden surges of intense fear with palpitations, shortness of breath, chest tightness, dizziness, sweating, and a sense of impending doom — followed by persistent worry about future attacks or avoidance behavior. Attacks peak within minutes and often prompt emergency-room visits because they mimic cardiac events. Treatment is highly effective: cognitive behavioral therapy targeting catastrophic interpretation and avoidance, combined with SSRIs or SNRIs, leads to remission in most patients.