Panic Disorder Test
A panic disorder test can help you find out if certain symptoms are caused by a panic disorder or a physical condition.
A panic disorder test can help you find out if certain symptoms are caused by a panic disorder or a physical condition. This helps to make sure you get the right treatment. Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder in which you have repeated panic attacks. A panic attack is a sudden feeling of intense fear or anxiety . Besides emotional distress, a panic attack can cause physical symptoms. They include chest pain , rapid heartbeat, dizziness , and shortness of breath . A panic attack can last anywhere from a few minutes to over an hour. During a panic attack, some people think they are having a heart attack . Panic attacks may occur as part of an anxiety disorder or if you have another mental health condition such as depression . Usually, panic attacks cannot be predicted. Some panic attacks happen in response to a stressful or scary situation. Other attacks happen without a clear reason. Panic attacks can occur as often as a few times a day or only a few times a year. If you have panic attacks, it doesn't mean you will develop a panic disorder. Many people only have one or two panic attacks in their lifetime and get better without treatment. But having a panic disorder is not common. It only affects a small percentage of adults, but it's more common in women than in men. While panic disorder is not life-threatening, it can be upsetting and affect your quality of life. If left untreated, it can lead to other health conditions, including depression and substance use disorder . Other names: panic disorder screening
Why is this test ordered? You may need a panic disorder test if you've had two or more recent panic attacks for no clear reason and are afraid of having more panic attacks. Panic attacks have at least four of these symptoms at the same time: Palpitations (racing or pounding heart) Chest pain or discomfort Shortness of breath or feeling as if you're suffocating Sweating, chills, or heat sensations Feeling dizzy, light-headed, or unsteady Trembling or shaking Nausea or upset stomach Fear of losing control Fear of dying Feeling like you are choking Depersonalization (feeling as if you are watching yourself from outside of your body) Derealization, (feelings of unreality, as if you are dreaming) Numbness or tingling
Clinical Interpretation
To understand the results of a panic disorder test, your provider will consider your symptoms, medical history, and the results of other tests. Symptoms of panic disorder often begin before age 25 but may occur in the mid-30s and include: Frequent, unexpected panic attacks Ongoing worry about having another panic attack Avoiding places and situations because you're worried that they may cause a panic attack Fear of losing control No other cause of a panic attack, such as substance use, a mental health condition or physical condition Treatment for panic disorder usually includes one or more of the following: Talk therapy, also called psychotherapy or counseling, to help you understand your feelings. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), a type of talk therapy that helps you change negative thoughts or how you react to things that cause you to feel anxiety. Mental health counseling. Anti-anxiety, antidepressant or other medicines. Your provider may also urge you to practice other healthy habits to reduce panic attacks. These may include avoiding alcohol, reducing caffeine, eating regular meals, and getting enough sleep and exercise . They may also recommend that you join a support group. Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results .
Clinical Protocol & Patient Advice
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You don't need any special preparations for a panic disorder test.
Usage Guidance
- Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Always discuss your specific results with a qualified healthcare professional.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine. View the original.