Panic Disorder involves recurrent unexpected panic attacks and which follow-on requirement?

• A. Recurrent unexpected panic attacks with at least 4 symptoms, followed by 1 month of worry about additional attacks
• B. Attacks that are always expected in specific situations
• C. Panic attacks that occur only during sleep
• D. Recurrent unexpected panic attacks with at least 4 symptoms, followed by 3 months of worry about additional attacks

Answer: (A)

Panic disorder is defined by a pattern of recurrent, unexpected panic attacks and a persistent worry about having more attacks, lasting at least one month after the attacks begin. Each panic attack involves a sudden surge of intense fear with several physical and cognitive symptoms, and it typically requires four or more of these symptoms to meet the criteria. After these attacks, the person must experience at least one month of concern about when the next attack might occur or show significant changes in behavior to avoid future attacks. This is why the option describing recurrent unexpected panic attacks with at least four symptoms followed by one month of worry about additional attacks is the correct match. Choices describing attacks that are always expected in specific situations, attacks only during sleep, or a 3-month worry period do not fit the DSM-5 criteria for panic disorder.