Panic disorder is one of several specific types of anxiety disorder. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) explains that panic disorder is set apart from other anxiety conditions by the repeated and unexpected bouts of extreme fear and physiological side effects. The NIMH reports that panic disorder affects about 6 million American adults, mostly women. Symptoms can be overcome with therapy and medication.
Frequency of Attacks
Panic attacks, or anxiety attacks, can occur suddenly, with or without warning. Some individuals may understand their condition enough to know what stressors will trigger an anxiety attack. To be diagnosed with panic disorder, an individual will have experienced at least four episodes of a panic attack, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) states. An individual also can have panic disorder if she fears or feels anxious about when another panic attack will occur. There are numerous symptoms associated with the attack itself. Having just one or a few attacks, especially during a traumatic time, may not indicate the presence of a disorder. An individual with a history of anxiety issues may experience temporary panic disorder as the result of something traumatic, such as the death of a loved one.
Cardiovascular Symptoms
Anxiety can cause several cardiovascular symptoms, often the body's natural reaction to the stressor. An individual may have an elevated heart rate and may experience shortness of breath. Hyperventilation is also common, the Mayo Clinic reports. When an individual hyperventilates, he may take rapid breaths but feel as though he cannot get enough air. Any of these cardiovascular symptoms can lead to dizziness, chest pain and fainting. All Psych Online points out that individuals who suffer these cardiovascular signs of anxiety may seek emergency medical treatment, fearing that they are having a heart attack. They even may fear that they are about to die because of the intensity of the effects they are experiencing.
Other Physical Symptoms
The body temperature may rise, leading to excessive sweating. Such a reaction can be due to an elevated blood pressure from the increase in heart rate. Chills and hot flashes may accompany these symptoms. An individual may tremble or feel jittery. Adrenaline surges are common as the body attempts to cope with the stressor. It may be difficult to swallow or the throat may tighten during a panic attack. The muscles can become rigid and tense, the Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA) points out. The anxiousness an individual experiences can lead her to feel nauseated and even vomit or experience diarrhea. The abdominal upset can include mild to moderate pain. Indigestion or heartburn is not an uncommon effect of panic disorder.
Other Effects
Because of this condition, individuals may avoid certain situations or stressors. This in itself can lead to increased anxiety. Panic attacks can be debilitating, making normal daily activities nearly impossible. Even though the individual is aware that the fears contributing to the disorder are irrational, he cannot control them. This leads to feeling out of control or worrying that others will perceive him as abnormal. Individuals with panic disorder can experience fatigue, restlessness, trouble sleeping or irritability.
