The Most Common Symptoms
Few people who have panic disorder experience all of the dozen or more physical or emotional sensations that accompany a panic attack. Although panic attacks vary with the individual, doctors define an “attack” when it has at least 4 of the following common symptoms:*
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| * | These symptoms can be signs of another underlying condition; make sure to follow up with your physician and get regular checkups. |
It’s Not “Just Nerves”
Panic disorder is regarded as one of the great impostors of medicine because its symptoms are sometimes like those associated with heart attacks, some respiratory illnesses, and even thyroid diseases.
Many people who have panic disorder have been rushed to a hospital only to be told that there is “nothing wrong with them.” This sometimes happens because the attending physician may be unfamiliar with panic disorder and may not be properly diagnosing their condition. Unfortunately, for the individuals who may feel (or have been told) that “it’s just nerves,” it may take years for them to be properly diagnosed.
Next: Possible Causes >>
