What Increases Your Risk

The risk of having panic attacks and developing panic disorder may be higher if you:

• Have a family history of panic disorder. You are 8 times more likely to develop panic disorder if a family member has been diagnosed with it. You are also at increased risk if you have a parent with either depression or bipolar disorder.¹
• Have other conditions associated with panic disorder or panic attacks, such as depression.
• Drink alcohol, use illegal drugs, chain-smoke cigarettes, or drink large amounts of coffee or other caffeinated beverages.
• Take medicines known to trigger panic attacks, such as those used to treat asthma or heart problems.
• Have mitral valve prolapse. This is a heart condition in which one of the valves in the heart doesn't close as it should.
• Have had previous, unexpected panic attacks.
• Have had an episode of major depression.
• Are a woman who has recently gone through menopause.⁴

When To Call a Doctor

Call your doctor if you have:

• Attacks of intense fear or anxiety that seem to come on without a reason.
• A panic attack or worry that you will have another one, and your worrying interferes with your ability to do your daily activities.
• Occasional physical symptoms (such as shortness of breath and chest pain), and you are not sure what is causing them.

Watchful waiting

It can be hard to tell the difference between the symptoms of a panic attack (such as shortness of breath and chest pain) and the symptoms of a heart attack or another serious medical problem. If you have symptoms of a panic attack, be sure to get medical care right away so that other medical conditions can be ruled out.

Who to see

The following health professionals can diagnose panic attacks. They may work together with other health professionals to treat panic attacks and panic disorder:

• Emergency medicine specialist
• Family medicine physician
• General practitioner
• Physician assistant
• Nurse practitioner

Treatment for panic attacks and panic disorder may also be provided by a:

• Psychiatrist.
• Psychologist.
• Licensed professional counselor.

Many community mental health centers, hospital outpatient clinics, and family service agencies have treatment programs for people with panic disorder.

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.