Panic Disorder

Panic disorder involves recurrent, unexpected panic attacks with persistent concern about future attacks or behavioral changes to avoid them. Etiology includes genetic vulnerability, dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system, and environmental stressors. Clinically, patients experience sudden episodes of intense fear, palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, and fear of losing control. Diagnosis is clinical, based on DSM-5 criteria and exclusion of medical causes. Management includes cognitive-behavioral therapy, exposure-based interventions, and pharmacotherapy (e.g., SSRIs, benzodiazepines).