Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder involving repeated, unexpected panic attacks and ongoing worry or changes in behavior because another attack is feared. A panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear or discomfort. Having one panic attack does not necessarily mean that a person has panic disorder.
Symptoms of a panic attack
Symptoms usually build rapidly and may include:
- A racing or pounding heartbeat
- Chest discomfort
- Shortness of breath or a choking sensation
- Sweating, shaking, chills or hot flushes
- Dizziness, weakness, tingling or numbness
- Nausea or abdominal discomfort
- Feeling detached or that surroundings are unreal
- Fear of losing control, fainting or dying
A panic attack is frightening, but the attack itself is not usually dangerous. Symptoms often ease within minutes, although they can last longer and leave a person exhausted.
When panic attacks become panic disorder
Panic disorder may be diagnosed when attacks are recurrent and unexpected, followed by persistent concern about further attacks or significant changes intended to avoid them. Some people begin avoiding exercise, public transport, shops or places where escape might feel difficult. Agoraphobia can occur alongside panic disorder.
Medical assessment
New symptoms should not automatically be attributed to anxiety. Heart rhythm problems, asthma, thyroid disease, low blood sugar, medications and stimulant use can cause similar sensations. A healthcare professional will review symptoms, physical health, medications and substance use, and may arrange an examination or tests when needed.
See our Mental Health section for information about related conditions and support.
What to do during an attack
If you recognize the symptoms as part of a previously assessed panic condition, try to remain where you are if it is safe. Breathe slowly and gently, focus on something visible around you and remind yourself that the sensations will pass. Fighting every sensation or breathing very deeply and quickly can make dizziness and tingling worse.
A personalized plan developed with a therapist can be more useful than relying on emergency coping techniques alone.
Treatment
Panic disorder is treatable. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a well-studied first-line treatment. It helps a person understand the cycle of panic, reconsider frightening interpretations of physical sensations and gradually face avoided sensations or situations in a safe, planned way.
Antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, may be offered when symptoms are persistent or therapy is not sufficient or preferred. These medications can take several weeks to help and may briefly increase anxiety when started. Dose changes and stopping should be planned with the prescriber.
Benzodiazepines can reduce anxiety quickly but can cause sedation, tolerance and dependence. They are not usually a suitable long-term treatment for panic disorder. Alcohol or unprescribed sedatives can worsen symptoms and create additional risks.
Supporting recovery
Regular sleep, physical activity, balanced meals and reducing caffeine or other stimulants may help overall well-being, but they do not replace effective treatment. Gradually returning to avoided activities is often part of recovery. A therapist can help set manageable steps.
When to seek urgent help
Call emergency services for new or unexplained chest pressure, severe breathing difficulty, fainting, a very irregular heartbeat, new weakness on one side, difficulty speaking, or symptoms that could indicate a medical emergency. Do not assume a first episode is a panic attack.
Seek urgent mental health support if you feel unable to keep yourself safe, have thoughts of suicide or self-harm, or are experiencing a severe mental health crisis. Contact local emergency services or a crisis service in your country.
Sources
- National Institute of Mental Health: Panic disorder
- NICE: Generalised anxiety disorder and panic disorder in adults
- National Institute of Mental Health: Anxiety disorders
Using this information
This information supports, but does not replace, an individual assessment by a qualified healthcare professional. New physical symptoms, changes in mental health and treatment decisions require personalized advice.
Reviewed: 28 August 2026