While most people have experienced a panic attack brought on by particular events or situations, the attacks in panic disorder often develop suddenly and for no apparent reason.
Panic disorder affects up to 3% of adults in the United States, and it is twice as common in women as in men. The disorder can appear at any age, but it most commonly appears in young adults.
The risk of developing a panic disorder is increased if there is a family history of panic attacks or disorders, a history of abuse, the experience of a traumatic event, the experience of lots of stress, or the need to adapt to significant changes in your life.