Panic Disorder Basics
By Sheryl Ankrom, About.com Guide to Panic Disorder
When it comes to managing panic symptoms and avoiding the many difficulties associated with panic disorder and agoraphobia, knowledge is power. Understanding the basics of panic disorder and agoraphobia can go a long way in your treatment and recovery.
- Panic Disorder Basics
- Symptoms of Panic Disorder
- Causes of Panic Disorder
- Diagnosing Panic Disorder
- Co-occurring Conditions
Panic Disorder Basics

When it comes to managing panic symptoms and avoiding the many difficulties associated with panic disorder and agoraphobia, knowledge is power. Understanding the basics of these anxiety disorders can impact your treatment and recovery.
- What is Panic Disorder?
- What is a Panic Attack?
- What is an Anxiety Attack?
- What is Panic Disorder With Agoraphobia?
- Panic Disorder Risk Factors
- What is Agoraphobia?
- The Agoraphobic's Safe Zone
- What Are Anxiety Disorders?
- Does Your Child Have an Anxiety Disorder?
- Is It Normal Anxiety or an Anxiety Disorder?
- Anxiety vs. Panic: What’s the Difference?
- What is Classical Conditioning?
- What’s the Difference Between Fear and Anxiety?
- What is an Anger Attack?
Symptoms of Panic Disorder

The symptoms of panic disorder can include psychological and physical complaints. Some of these symptoms can mimic other disorders, making it hard to tell if what you’re experiencing is related to panic disorder or not.
- What are the Symptoms of Panic Disorder?
- Physical Symptoms of Panic and Anxiety
- Chest Pain Symptoms and Panic Disorder
- Worry and Anxiety
- Panic Disorder and Hyperventilation
- Shortness of Breath and Panic Disorder
- Anticipatory Anxiety and Panic Disorder
- Fear of Leaving the House
- Headache Symptoms and Panic Disorder
- Foods That May Contribute to Headaches and Migraines
- Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Anxiety Disorders
- Depersonalization, Derealization and Panic Disorder
- Defense Mechanisms
- Irrational Beliefs
- Cognitive Disortions
- Top 4 Signs of Panic Disorder
Causes of Panic Disorder

The causes of panic disorder are somewhat complex. These causes are believed to have psychological, environmental and genetic influences.
- The Fight or Flight Stress Response
- Gene Linked to Panic Disorder
- Is PD Caused by a Chemical Imbalance?
Diagnosing Panic Disorder

Do you wonder how panic disorder is diagnosed? Here you will find information about the diagnostic criteria your healthcare provider uses to make a diagnosis of panic disorder.
- How is Panic Disorder Diagnosed?
- DSM-IV-TR Criteria for Diagnosing Panic Disorder
- Multiaxial Diagnostic System of the DSM-IV-TR
Co-occurring Conditions
Panic disorder may exist with other psychological or physical conditions. Here you will learn about some conditions that may occur with panic disorder.

