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What is Panic Disorder?

From , former About.com Guide

Updated: April 13, 2009

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Question: What is Panic Disorder?
Answer:

Panic disorder is one of several anxiety-related illness. Recurring panic attacks are the hallmark features of panic disorder. Panic attacks are sudden and intense feelings of terror, fear or apprehension, without the presence of actual danger.

After having a panic attack, the individual may continue to experience extreme anxiety for several hours. More often than not, the panic episode causes excessive worry about having another attack. It is not unusual for one to become so consumed with worry and fear, that he or she develops behavioral changes in the hopes of avoiding another attack.

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