Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent panic attacks—an uncontrollable and terrifying
response to ordinary, nonthreatening situations. There is also persistent anxiety or fear
about the panic attacks and changes in behavior in an attempt to avoid further attacks.
The symptoms of a panic attack include some combination of the following: sweating, hot or
cold flashes, choking or smothering sensations, racing heart, labored breathing, trembling,
chest pains, faintness, numbness, nausea or disorientation. Some experiencing an attack
may feel like they are dying, losing control or losing their mind. Panic attacks typically last
about five to 10 minutes but can be shorter or as long as an hour. During the attack, the
physical and emotional symptoms increase quickly in a wave-like fashion and then slowly
subside. A person may feel anxious and jittery for many hours after experiencing an attack.