Panic disorder

Panic disorder is the recurrent, unexpected experience of panic attacks, typically accompanied by long periods in constant fear of another attack.

Risk factors

Risk factors for panic disorder include:

• Gender: panic disorder occurs more frequently in women than men
• Family history of panic attacks or panic disorder
• Major life stress, such as the death or serious illness of a loved one
• A traumatic event, such as sexual assault or serious accident
• Major changes in your life, such as divorce or a new baby
• Smoking
• Caffeine
• History of childhood physical or sexual abuse

See also

• Hyperventilating
• Anxiety