Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder in which a person experiences recurrent panic attacks. A panic attack is a feeling of intense fear when there is no real threat or danger. More to Know Panic disorder is usually diagnosed between the ages of 18 and 24. More women than men have the condition and it can run in families. Along with unexplained and paralyzing fear, a person with panic disorder may experience a racing heartbeat, shortness of breath, chest pains, dizziness, hot flashes, and chills. Other symptoms may include shaking, trembling, sweating, and tingling in the fingers or toes. Some people may feel like they're losing control, having a heart attack, or dying. Symptoms usually last for 10-20 minutes but can last up to an hour or more. Attacks can occur without a specific trigger or warning. For this reason, many people with panic disorder have difficulty participating in everyday routines like going to work or school for fear of having an attack in public. Keep in Mind Left untreated panic disorder can be a debilitating illness that leads to depression, alcohol and drug abuse, and many other problems. With medication and behavioral therapy, however, panic disorders can be successfully managed and most people suffering from the disorder can go on to live normal lives. All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts. Back to Articles Related Articles 5 Ways to Deal With Anxiety We all get worried or nervous about things. Here are 5 ways to control anxiety. Read More 5 Ways to Help Yourself Through Depression It's important to take action against depression - it doesn't just go away on its own. In addition to getting professional help, here are 5 ways to feel better. Read More About Serious Stress Serious stress can come from dealing with a personal crisis, a disaster, a health crisis, or a mental health condition that feels out of control. Here's what to do when stress gets really serious. Read More Anxiety Disorders Anxiety is a normal part of growing up, and all kids experience it. But when it becomes extreme, it can interfere with a child's overall happiness. Read More Anxiety Disorders Anxiety is a natural part of life, and most of us experience it from time to time. But for some people, anxiety can be extreme. Read More Normal Childhood Fears It's normal for children to feel afraid at times. Parents can help kids feel safe and learn to feel at ease. Read More Being Afraid Have you ever been afraid? Everyone gets scared sometimes. Find out more about fear in this article for kids. Read More Depression Depression is very common. For more information about depression and feeling better, check out this article. Read More Fears and Phobias Fear is a normal human reaction that protects us by signaling danger and preparing us to deal with it. Get the facts about fears and phobias and what causes them. Read More Going to a Therapist What's it like to go to a psychologist, psychiatrist, or therapist? Find out in this article for kids. Read More Going to a Therapist Getting help with emotions or stress is the same as getting help with a medical problem like asthma or diabetes. This article explains how therapy works and how it can help with problems. Read More Phobias A phobia is strong fear of something. Find out more in this article for kids. Read More Taking Your Child to a Therapist Many children and teens have problems that affect how they feel, act, or learn. Going to therapy helps them cope better, feel better, and do better. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.