Panic Disorder

Feeling suddenly scared and fearful in situations where one wouldn’t expect to feel that way is symptomatic of a panic attack. Panic attacks typically consist of rapid or pounding hear rate, shortness of breath, chest tightness, dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, feeling sweaty, hot or cold, with tingles or numbness in the hands, feet or face. Individuals that fear having panic attacks, worry about the implications of the panic attack (e.g. heart attack, fainting, “going crazy”) or alter their behaviour because of panic attacks (see Agoraphobia) may be experiencing panic disorder.