Panic attacks: Psychologic response or medical illness?

Panic attacks are surprisingly common in the United States, costing our economy more than $100 million per year in disability benefits and health care expenses. However, diagnosis is difficult and consequently many patients are treated for other conditions. When an underlying disorder is determined to be present, treatment of that disorder may ameliorate attacks. If none is present, panic symptoms will respond to a variety of drugs. Behavioral therapy may be necessary in severe cases or as adjunctive therapy after attacks abate.