Mental Health: Panic Attacks
from Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research

Causes
Researchers aren't sure what causes panic attacks. Heredity, stress and certain biochemical factors may play a role. Your chance of having panic attacks increases if you have a close family member who has had them.

Many researchers believe your body's natural fight-or-flight response to danger is involved. For example, if a grizzly bear came after you, your body would react instinctively. Your heart rate and breathing would speed up as your body readied itself for a life-threatening situation. Many of the same reactions occur in a panic attack. No obvious stressor is present, but something trips your body's alarm system

When to seek medical advice
You may have a condition called panic disorder if:

Your panic attacks are frequent
You worry persistently for a month or longer about having more attacks
You change your behavior in response to ongoing panic attacks — for example, avoiding locations or situations in which you've previously had an attack
Panic disorder can greatly interfere with your life. It's also possible that other health problems can cause symptoms similar to panic attacks. See your doctor to determine what's causing your symptoms. Your doctor may refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist.

Next: Screening and Diagnosis

©By Mayo Clinic Staff
April 17, 2006
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