The Facts
Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder. People with this condition
may become anxious about a situation to the extent that their feelings interfere
with daily life. While most people have experienced a panic attack brought on
by particular events or situations, the attacks in panic disorder often develop
suddenly and for no apparent reason.
Panic disorder affects up to 1.7% of Americans each year, and it is two to three times more common in women than in men. The disorder can appear at any age, but it most commonly appears in young adults.