A person is said to be suffering from a panic disorder if he/she suffers from repeated panic attacks, accompanied by an intense fear of having another panic attack.

For some people, the first encounter with panic attack can be so strong that it leaves a lasting experience and imprint - making them suffer from repeated panic attacks. If not treated properly, sufferers can take a heavy emotional toll. They may feel inferior of themselves and this may affect their relationships, work and other important aspects of life. Ultimately, this would lead to the following panic disorder symptoms:

-Constant state of anxiety - Instead of feeling relax when not having a panic attack; sufferer is on a constant state of alert and anxiety. This stems from their fear of having another panic attack. Naturally, being in such a state of anxiety, sufferer will take more beating emotionally.

-Phobias - Sufferer will also begin to develop a certain level of phobia towards certain events or environment. This fear is based on their beliefs that a particular situation triggers their panic attacks. In the worst case scenario, they may become totally house-bound.

Fortunately, panic disorder is one of the most treatable conditions. When caught in the early stages, further complication maybe avoided which can lead to faster and complete recovery. Thus, it is essential that sufferers seek help immediately - identify their condition and start treatment as soon as possible.

Broadly, treatment for panic disorder and panic attacks can be classified either as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Exposure Therapy.

In Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, the patient's thinking pattern and behavior is made known and he/she is taught techniques to look at their fears in a more realistic manner.

For Exposure Therapy, as the name suggests, patient is slowly expose to their problematic fears. Techniques will then be taught during the process to help them learn the proper way of coping and to give them a better control of their panic response.