Is a panic attack the same as a panic disorder?

Panic attacks are sudden episodes of fear and anxiety due to an overwhelming stress response that is greater than a situation would typically warrant. Most people will experience at least one panic attack during their lifetime. However, this does not mean they have a panic disorder.

Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder that involves repeated panic attacks in a short time period (e.g., four or more panic attacks in a month). Diagnosis of panic disorder also involves ruling out other conditions that may cause panic attacks or similar symptoms.

How common are panic attacks and panic disorder?

Most people will experience at least one panic attack in their lifetime.

Panic disorder is among the most common type of anxiety disorder. Each year, about 2.4 million Americans experience panic disorder, according to the National Mental Health Association. Women are twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with panic disorder.

How can I tell if I am having a panic attack?

People who have panic attacks often feel as though they are having a heart attack or are losing control of their thoughts. Common symptoms include:

• Rapid or pounding heartbeat
• Heavy perspiration
• Shortness of breath or feeling of suffocation
• Chest pain
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nausea or abdominal cramping
• Chills or hot flushes
• Tingling and numbness in the hands
• Trembling
• Sensation of choking
• Feelings of unreality or being detached from yourself
• Fear of losing control
• Fear of dying