SYMPTOMS OF PANIC DISORDER

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF PANIC DISORDER?
Panic Attacks
Recurring panic attacks are the hallmark features of panic disorder. Panic attacks are sudden and intense feelings of terror, fear or apprehension, without the presence of actual danger. The symptoms of a panic attack usually happen suddenly, peak within 10 minutes and then subside. However, some attacks may last longer or may occur in succession, making it difficult to determine when one attack ends and another begins.
According to the DSM-IV-TR, a panic attack is characterized by four or more of the following symptoms:
palpitations, pounding heart or accelerated heart beat
sweating
trembling or shaking
sensations of shortness of breath or smothering
feeling of choking
chest pain or discomfort
nausea or abdominal distress
feeling dizzy, unsteady, lightheaded or faint
feelings of unreality (derealization) or being detached from oneself (depersonalization)
fear of losing control or going crazy
fear of dying
numbness or tingling sensations (parasthesias)
chills or hot flushes
The presence of fewer than four of the above symptoms may be considered a limited-symptom panic attack. In order for a diagnosis of panic disorder to be made, recurring, spontaneous panic attacks must be present.
Fear, Worry and Avoidance
The symptoms of a panic attack are usually so intense they are often described by sufferers as the worst experience of their lives. After having a panic attack, the individual may continue to experience extreme anxiety for several hours. More often than not, the panic episode causes continuous worry about having another attack. This may lead to the development of agoraphobia, which complicates recovery and limits one's ability to function in usual daily activities.
The Importance of Getting Treatment
The symptoms of agoraphobia can be frightening and potentially disabling. But, it is a treatable disorder, and most people will find significant relief with therapeutic intervention. The sooner treatment begins after the onset of panic disorder, the more quickly symptoms will lessen or disappear. However, even those with long-term symptoms generally experience improvement with treatment, and most can resume many of the activities they once enjoyed.
Because panic disorder can mimic or coexist with many other medical or psychological disorders, it is important that other conditions be ruled out. Talk to your doc tor if you are experiencing the symptoms of panic disorder. Http://panicdisorder.about.com/od/symptoms/a/PDSymptoms.htm?n1-1