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Panic Disorder with Agoraphobia
Definition
Panic disorder, one of the anxiety disorders, is characterized by repeated and unexpected attacks of intense fear and anxiety.
Panic attacks are usually not related to a particular situation (although attacks in patients with social and specific phobias are usually expected or "cued" to a recognized or specific stimulus) and typically "peak" within ten minutes of their onset.
Agoraphobia refers to a fear of being in places where escape might be difficult, or where help might be unavailable in case of a panic attack.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
The exact cause of panic disorder is unknown, but it is associated with multiple physiological factors. Panic disorder can occur with or without agoraphobia, but agoraphobia develops in more than one-third of cases.
The development of agoraphobia may involve learned behavior, since it reflects a fear of experiencing panic attacks in unprotected settings. Sometimes the association of panic attacks occurs with areas where they have happened. Studies have reported lifetime prevalence rates of 1.5 to 5% for panic disorder. Panic disorder can occur in children, but the average age of onset is 25 years old. Panic disorder affects middle-aged and older adults as well. Studies have shown that women are 2 to 3 times more likely to be affected.
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• Definition
• Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Symptoms & Signs
• Prevention
• Diagnosis & Tests
• Treatment
• Prognosis
• Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Agoraphobia
• Panic Disorder
Other Topics
• Breathing Difficulty
• Cardiovascular
• Chest Pain
• Depression
• Dizziness
• Drug Abuse
• Endocrine
• Fainting
• Hand Tremor
• Heartbeat Sensations
• Heimlich Maneuver
• Numbness and Tingling
• Physical Examination
• Respiratory
• Stress and Anxiety
• Sweating - Excessive
Review Date : 2/17/2002
Reviewed By : Yvette Cruz, M.D., Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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