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Glossary terms open in a new window
At one time, panic symptoms were believed to have stemmed from "psychological problems." Researchers now believe, however, that panic disorder is a real and treatable medical illness caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Panic disorder can also sometimes be accompanied by anxiety or depression.
Contrary to an older, common belief, panic symptoms are not due to a "character flaw" or "character weakness." These symptoms suggest a real medical illness that can be treated.
Biologically, it appears that emotional memories stored in specific parts of the brain may play a role in disorders involving very distinct fears, like phobias, while other parts may be involved in other forms of anxiety.
Some researchers suggest that symptoms of panic may be caused by an imbalance of specific chemicals in the brain. Three of these chemicals are called norepinephrine, GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), and serotonin. It is believed that changes in the levels of these chemicals play a role in anxiety disorder.
Symptoms of panic appear to run in families and are twice as common in women as in men. Genetic factors or changes in body chemistry, combined with stress, may also play an important role. Certain illnesses, drugs, and certain social situations—or even substances like caffeine—may also contribute to triggering attacks.
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