A panic attack is a sudden, intense episode of fear accompanied by overwhelming physical and emotional symptoms. While panic attack symptoms overlap with those of serious medical emergencies, they are usually harmless and resolve within minutes. However, recurrent attacks may indicate panic disorder and require professional treatment.
Causes and Risk Factors of Panic Attack
- Biological factors: Genetic predisposition, abnormal regulation of brain chemicals.
- Psychological factors: Chronic stress, trauma history, or ongoing anxiety disorders.
- Lifestyle contributors: Excess caffeine, stimulant use, or abrupt withdrawal from medications or substances.
- Risk factors:
Age (often begins in late teens to early 30s)
Family history of anxiety or mood disorders
Personality traits such as high sensitivity to body sensations
When to Seek Medical Care
See a doctor if you experience repeated panic attacks, ongoing fear of future episodes, or avoidance of everyday activities due to anxiety. Seek immediate medical evaluation for panic-like symptoms with chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or fainting to rule out life-threatening conditions such as heart disease.