What happens during a panic attack?

Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD

Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease)

During a panic attack, the adrenal glands on the top of the kidneys produce hormones that increase your heart rate and cause sweating and other symptoms. Fear of these attacks is termed agoraphobia. Watch Dr. Oz discuss panic attacks.

Dr. Jennifer Hartstein, PsyD

Psychology

A panic attack can cause symptoms in almost every part of your body, says psychologist Dr. Jennifer Hartstein. Watch this video to find out what the head-to-toe symptoms of a panic attack are.

Continue Learning about Panic Disorder

Piedmont Heart Institute

Panic disorder often begins in the late teens or early adulthood. More women than men have panic dis...

RealAge

If you have panic attacks and panic disorder, you should call your doctor immediately if: Your s...

Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD

You can almost think of this as acute episodes that are born from things that normally wouldn’t be a...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Panic Disorder

Sudden attacks of fear, anxiety, nervousness - that is panic disorder. Panic attacks can happen anywhere, without warning. Once you've had a panic attack, you may start avoiding the place where the first occurred. Very often, panic disorder runs in families - and can be triggered by life stress. Various therapies can help panic disorder, as can medication.

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