Panic disorder is a common and treatable disorder.
Children and adolescents with panic disorder have unexpected and repeated periods of intense fear or discomfort, along with other symptoms such as a racing heartbeat or feeling short of breath. Panic attacks frequently develop without warning. More than 3 million Americans will experience panic disorder during their lifetime. Panic disorder often begins during adolescence, although it may start during childhood, and sometimes runs in families. If not recognized and treated, panic disorder and its complications can be devastating.