Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder - What Increases Your Risk
The risk of having panic attacks and developing panic disorder may be higher if you:
- Have a family history of panic disorder. You are 8 times more likely to develop panic disorder if a family member has been diagnosed with it. You are also at increased risk if you have a parent with either depression or bipolar disorder.1
- Have other conditions associated with panic disorder or panic attacks, such as depression.
- Drink alcohol, use illegal drugs, chain-smoke cigarettes, or drink large amounts of coffee or other caffeinated beverages.
- Take medicines known to trigger panic attacks, such as those used to treat asthma or heart problems.
- Have mitral valve prolapse, a heart condition in which one of the valves in the heart does not close as it should.
- Have had previous, unexpected panic attacks.
- Have experienced an episode of major depression.
- Are a woman who has recently gone through menopause.4
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Last Updated:
September 15, 2010
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