Definition of Panic disorder:

Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder that causes repeated, unexpected attacks of intense fear. These attacks may last from minutes to hours.

See also: Generalized anxiety disorder

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The exact cause of a panic disorder is unknown. Genetics may play a role in this disorder. Studies suggest that if one identical twin has panic disorder, 40% of the time, the other twin will also develop the condition. However, panic disorder also often occurs in family members who are not blood relatives.

Panic disorder occurs twice as often in women as in men. A person with panic disorder often lives in fear of another attack and may be afraid to be alone or to be far from medical help.

Symptoms usually begin before age 25. Although panic disorder may occur in children, it is often not diagnosed until they are older. People with this condition often have medical tests and exams for symptoms related to heart attack or other conditions before a diagnosis of panic disorder is made.