Panic attacks are sudden and intense feelings of fear accompanied by physical symptoms, such as a pounding heart, shortness of breath, tingling sensations, and dizziness or lightheadedness. Each year about one in 10 people experiences a panic attack, but only about one in 75 people has panic disorder. These unexpected panic attacks can interfere with a person's emotional life, relationships, and ability to work. Many people who have panic disorder also develop agoraphobia.
Agoraphobia involves a tendency to avoid the places and situations that trigger panic attacks.
Not all people with panic disorder develop agoraphobia. Those who do develop agoraphobia commonly avoid large stores and other crowded places, driving on the highway, and being far from their home. Panic disorder is usually chronic and tends to be a reaction to stress. Those who do not receive treatment are likely to continue having problems, though the severity of their attacks may wax and wane. Many people who have panic disorder can benefit from medications.