Diagnosis of Panic Disorder, Anxiety Symptoms

Written by: Petros Skapinakis, MD, MPH, PhD, lecturer of Psychiatry in the University of Ioannina Medical School, Greece. Eva Gerasi, postgraduate student in the Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital of Ioannina, Greece.

First version: 26 Nov 2006. Latest revision: 26 Nov 2006.

Abstract:
Criteria for the diagnosis of panic disorders are repeated panic attacks, and concern and worry about them.

Question:

How do we put the diagnosis of panic disorder? Which Anxiety Symptoms are required?

Answer:

We say someone suffers from panic disorder when there are:

Recurrent unexpected panic attacks (with no specific stimulus)
Concern about additional attacks (phobophobia)
Worry about implications of attack (loss of control, "going crazy")
Change in behaviour related to attacks

We must always be careful to exclude epilepsy and acute intoxication with or withdrawal from alcohol or illicit drugs (amphetamines, cocaine) or even caffeine.

More about Panic Disorder

Definition Incidence Diagnosis Panic attacks Panic attacks at night Imaginary heart attacks Fear of speaking in public Treatment Self-treatment Anxiety disorders link list Age of onset of panic disorder Panic Disorders: Situations and Causes of Panic Attacks Development during lifetime Anxiety and phobia Am I going mad? Afraid of being rejected by boyfriend Fear of flying Biological causes of shyness Fear to use public toilets

Sources, references

Disclaimer: The documents contained in this web site are presented for information purposes only. The material is in no way intended to replace professional medical care or attention by a qualified psychiatrist or psychotherapist. It can not and should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or choice of treatment. If you find anything wrong, please notify us at .



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