panic attack

noun

plural panic attacks

: a sudden feeling or episode of panic

specifically : a brief episode of intense fear or dread that is of sudden onset and typically subsides within 30 minutes, usually occurs for no apparent reason but may sometimes be associated with an identifiable triggering stimulus (such as an existing phobia), and is accompanied by a sense of unreality and impending loss of control and by various debilitating physical symptoms (such as increased heart rate, chest pain, dizziness, and shortness of breath)

Those undergoing a panic attack often believe they are suffering a heart attack or some other illness.

—Lillian Lee Kim

Agoraphobia is a fear only of fear itself, that is, of any situation where help would be unavailable and escape difficult in case of a panic attack.

—The Harvard Mental Health Letter

compare anxiety attack

Examples of panic attack in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

He was summoned to the site of his panic attacks to host SNL in 2005 and 2006, and was able to make it inside the building both times. —Raechal Shewfelt, EW.com, 30 Nov. 2024

Jang Dong-yoon plays Yu-chan, Da-eun’s lifelong friend, whose work life has been hampered by panic attacks. —Joan MacDonald, Forbes, 22 Nov. 2024

However, a coronary angiogram (specialized imaging of the heart) that detects blockages will show normal results, which often leads to a misdiagnosis of panic attacks or anxiety. —Ashley Olivine, Ph.d., Mph, Verywell Health, 20 Nov. 2024

Clonazepam is prescribed to treat seizure disorders, such as epilepsy, panic disorder—a form of anxiety where an individual suffers frequently from panic attacks—and other complaints, such as restless leg syndrome or muscle spasms. —Matt Robison, Newsweek, 20 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

panic attack

noun

: an episode of intense fear or apprehension that is of sudden onset and may occur for no apparent reason or as a reaction to an identifiable triggering stimulus (as a stressful event)

specifically : one that is accompanied by usually four or more bodily or cognitive symptoms (as heart palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, or feelings of unreality) and that typically peaks within 10 minutes of onset