What are the causes and symptoms of panic disorder?
Scientists are not sure what causes panic disorder, but they suspect the tendency to develop the condition can be inherited. Some experts think that people with panic disorder may have a hypersensitive nervous system that unnecessarily responds to nonexistent threats. Research suggests that people with panic disorder may not be able to make proper use of their body’s normal stress-reducing chemicals. People with panic disorder usually have their first panic attack in their 20s. Four or more of the following symptoms during panic attacks would indicate panic disorder if no medical, drug-related, neurologic, or other psychiatric disorder is found: • pounding, skipping or palpitating heartbeat • shortness of breath or the sensation of smothering • dizziness or lightheadedness • nausea or stomach problems • chest pains or pressure • choking sensation or a “lump in the throat” • chills or hot flashes • sweating • fear of dying • feelings of unreality or being detached • tingling or numbness
