anxiety_disorders


How can I tell if it's panic disorder?

The symptoms of panic that most people feel from time to time as a result of living in a hectic world are not the same as the symptoms experienced by someone with panic disorder. To determine if you are suffering from panic disorder click Yes or No in response to the following questions:

Do you experience:
Repeated, unexpected "attacks" during which you suddenly are overcome by intense fear or discomfort, for no apparent reason? Yes No
During these attacks, do you experience any of these symptoms?
Pounding heart Yes No
Sweating Yes No
Trembling or shaking Yes No
Shortness of breath Yes No
Choking Yes No
Chest pain Yes No
Nausea or abdominal discomfort Yes No
Dizziness Yes No
Feelings of unreality Yes No
Fear of losing control Yes No
Fear of dying Yes No
Numbness or tingling sensations Yes No
Chills or hot flashes Yes No
"Jelly" legs Yes No
Fear of places or situations where getting help or escape might be difficult, such as in a crowd or on a bridge? Yes No
Being unable to travel without a companion? Yes No
For at least one month following an attack, have you:
felt persistent concern about having another one? Yes No
worried about having a heart attack or going "crazy"? Yes No
changed your behavior to accommodate the anxiety? Yes No

If you answered Yes to one or more of the above questions, you may have panic disorder (with or without agoraphobia) and should consider seeking professional help.

Panic disorder is a treatable condition. To find out more about how The Ross Center can help you overcome panic disorder and/or to schedule a consultation/diagnostic evaluation with Jerilyn Ross, the Center's director, or with another staff member, please call (202) 363-1010 or fill out the contact form.

Back to An Overview of Anxiety Disorders

Disclaimer: This site contains general reference information and is not intended
as a substitute for consulting with your physician or other healthcare professional.