First experiences of panic attacks are normally in young adulthood. Panic attacks run in families. Causes of panic are not yet proven. Clear links have been found with exposure to stress. Occur almost immediately after a stressful event.
Many people think they are having heart attacks or going crazy and losing control.
They end up in the emergency room of the hospital and most never really understand what is happening inside of them. Many people become so fearful of future panic attacks that they will not leave their home. According to the American Psychiatric Association panic is very treatable. Medication needs to be taken 6-12 months then typically discontinued. Panic attacks may or may not recur after cessation of medication.