Symptoms of Panic Disorder

Panic disorder presents a wide range of symptoms that can be physical, psychological, and behavioural in nature. Understanding these can help in early detection and intervention. 

Physical Symptoms of Panic Disorder 

Panic attacks often come with intense physical sensations, including:  

• Heart palpitations or a pounding heartbeat 

• Chest pain or tightness that may mimic a heart attack 

• Shortness of breath or a choking feeling 

• Trembling, shaking, or sweating 

• Dizziness, nausea, or feeling faint 

These panic disorder symptoms can be so intense that many people visit emergency rooms, fearing a heart attack. 

Psychological Symptoms of Panic Disorder 

Emotionally, panic attacks can be terrifying. Common psychological symptoms include: 

• A strong fear of dying, losing control, or “going crazy” 

• Feelings of detachment from oneself or surroundings (derealisation or depersonalisation) 

• Overwhelming dread or a sense of impending doom 

These mental symptoms can be just as distressing as the physical ones and often fuel further anxiety. 

Behavioural Symptoms of Panic Disorder

Over time, individuals may begin to change their behaviour in response to panic attacks: 

• Avoiding places or situations where previous attacks occurred 

• Developing agoraphobia, where even leaving home feels unsafe 

• Constantly checking for signs of an oncoming attack 

These behaviours can limit a person’s independence and quality of life if left unaddressed.

Causes of Panic Disorder 

Panic disorder doesn’t just appear overnight—there’s often more beneath the surface than we realise. Let’s explore the causes of panic disorder in the following section: 

Biological and Neurological Causes 

Panic disorder may have a genetic basis, with a family history of anxiety disorders increasing the risk.  

Genetics affect stress sensitivity and brain responses, while imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and GABA can disrupt the body’s stress response, making panic attacks more frequent and intense. 

Psychological and Environmental Triggers

Childhood trauma, such as abuse or neglect, increases vulnerability to panic disorder. Long-term stress from work, family, or finances can weaken coping abilities. Major life transitions, like breakups, bereavement, or moving, act as triggers, contributing to the development of panic disorder symptoms over time.

Risk Factors for Panic Disorder: Who Is Most Vulnerable?

Certain individuals may be more prone to developing panic disorder due to a mix of genetic, psychological, and lifestyle factors. 

Genetic and Biological Factors 

Having a family history of panic disorder or anxiety-related conditions increases one’s risk. 

Neurochemical imbalances—particularly involving serotonin and norepinephrine—can disrupt how the brain regulates stress and fear, making panic attacks more likely. 

Psychological Traits and Mental Health History 

Individuals with pre-existing conditions like depression, OCD, or generalised anxiety are at higher risk. 

Those who are more emotionally sensitive, prone to catastrophic thinking, or who struggle to cope with stress may also be more vulnerable. 

Age, Gender, and Lifestyle Factors 

Panic disorder commonly begins in the late teens to early 30s. 

It tends to affect women more than men, possibly due to hormonal and social factors. 

Poor sleep, lack of exercise, high caffeine or stimulant intake, and chronic stress can all contribute to the development of panic disorder symptoms.

Types of Panic Disorders

Panic disorder doesn’t look the same for everyone. It can present in a few different ways, often overlapping with other anxiety-related conditions. The following are some of the types of panic disorders:

Panic Disorder 

Panic disorder involves recurrent and unexpected panic attacks. 

These episodes occur suddenly and aren’t tied to specific situations or triggers. While people with this condition may function in social or work settings, the unpredictability of the attacks can lead to ongoing worry and physical exhaustion. 

However, unlike agoraphobia, there’s no consistent avoidance of places or situations. 

Panic Disorder with Agoraphobia 

In this type of panic disorder, panic attacks are coupled with a deep fear of being in situations where escape might be hard. 

This fear leads people to avoid places like crowded malls, public transport, or even wide-open spaces. In severe cases, individuals may stop leaving their homes altogether. 

Panic disorder with agoraphobia can severely restrict independence and daily life, requiring focused intervention and support. 

Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) 

GAD is marked by persistent, excessive worry about everyday situations. 

Unlike panic disorder, the anxiety is more constant than episodic. Physical symptoms like restlessness, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances are common, and in some cases, panic-like symptoms may occur alongside the chronic worry. 

Social Anxiety Disorder 

This condition involves an intense fear of being judged or embarrassed in social settings. 

People may dread public speaking, meeting new people, or eating in front of others. Panic symptoms like sweating or trembling can be triggered in these moments, though the focus is on social scrutiny. 

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) 

PTSD develops after exposure to a traumatic event, such as violence or a serious accident. 

Symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, and being constantly on edge. Panic-like episodes may happen when the person is reminded of the trauma, even in everyday situations. 

Specific Phobias 

These are intense fears linked to particular objects or scenarios, like flying, spiders, or heights. 

The fear is immediate and overwhelming, often triggering panic responses when faced with the feared item or situation. Unlike panic disorder, the attacks are predictable and tied to a specific trigger.

How Is Panic Disorder Diagnosed? 

Panic disorder diagnosis is based on a thorough psychological evaluation, including clinical interviews and symptom history. 

Diagnostic Criteria

According to the DSM-5, a panic disorder diagnosis requires: 

• Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks 

• At least one month of concern about future attacks or behavioural changes due to them 

Doctors also rule out other causes like thyroid problems, heart conditions, or substance use, which can mimic panic disorder symptoms. 

Psychiatric Evaluation and Screening Tools 

Mental health professionals may use structured interviews and assessment tools to confirm panic disorder diagnosis. 

The Panic Disorder Severity Scale (PDSS) is one such tool that measures how much the disorder impacts daily life. 

These evaluations help create a tailored panic disorder treatment plan. 

Panic Disorder Treatment Options 

Panic disorder treatment often includes a mix of psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. 

Psychological Therapies

Therapy plays a key role in managing panic disorder, offering structured techniques to reduce symptoms and improve emotional regulation.

• CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) – Helps identify and challenge thought patterns that fuel panic attacks. 

• Exposure Therapy and Desensitisation – Gradually introduces feared situations to reduce avoidance behaviours. 

• ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy) – Encourages accepting panic disorder symptoms without judgment while committing to valued actions. 

• PFPP (Panic-Focused Psychodynamic Psychotherapy) – Explores unconscious conflicts and past experiences linked to panic episodes. 

Medications 

Medications can reduce panic disorder symptoms by regulating brain chemistry and easing both physical and emotional distress.

• SSRIs and SNRIs – Common first-line antidepressants that help balance brain chemicals involved in anxiety. 

• Benzodiazepines – Fast-acting anti-anxiety medication used short-term due to the risk of dependence. ‍
• Beta-blockers – Help manage physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat during panic attacks.

When to Seek Professional Help for Panic Disorder

If you’re experiencing frequent panic attacks, avoiding everyday activities, or turning to alcohol or drugs to cope—these are red flags. 

Professionals can help in panic disorder prevention by reducing the worsening of symptoms, reducing distress, and improving overall functioning. Early intervention, including support from rehabilitation centres, can significantly boost recovery outcomes.

Get Expert Support for Panic Disorder at Cadabam's Today 

Struggling with panic attacks or constant anxiety can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it by yourself. 

At Cadabam’s, we offer comprehensive, personalised treatment for panic disorder through evidence-based therapies, medical management, and rehab support when needed. Our expert team includes psychiatrists, psychologists, and care professionals who walk with you every step of the way. 

Reach out today to begin your journey towards calm, control, and lasting recovery. 

If you are searching for a solution to your problem, Cadabam’s Rehabilitation Centre can help you with its team of specialised experts. We have been helping thousands of people live healthier and happier lives for 30+ years. We leverage evidence-based approaches and holistic treatment methods to help individuals effectively manage their Panic Disorder. Get in touch with us today. You can call us at +91 96111 94949.