A panic attack is a sudden, intense surge of fear or discomfort accompanied by other symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. Panic attacks are a symptom of panic disorder, but they’re not the same thing. A panic attack isn’t a mental disorder; it is a symptom. It can occur as part of a mental disorder, such as anxiety disorders or major depressive disorder, or due to a medical condition, or because of a drug or medication.^[1]

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) defines a panic attack as:^[1]

An abrupt surge of intense fear or intense discomfort that reaches a peak within minutes, and during which time four (or more) of the following symptoms occur:

Note: The abrupt surge can occur from a calm state or an anxious state.

1. Palpitations, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rate.
2. Sweating.
3. Trembling or shaking.
4. Sensations of shortness of breath or smothering.
5. Feelings of choking.
6. Chest pain or discomfort.
7. Nausea or abdominal distress.
8. Feeling dizzy, unsteady, light-headed, or faint.
9. Chills or heat sensations.
10. Paresthesias (numbness or tingling sensations).
11. Derealization (feelings of unreality) or depersonalization (being detached from oneself).
12. Fear of losing control or “going crazy.”
13. Fear of dying.