1) Do you experience sudden episodes of intense and overwhelming fear that seem to come on for no apparent reason?

2) During these episodes, do you also experience several of the following symptoms? Racing, pounding, or skipping heartbeat Chest pain, pressure, or discomfort Difficulty catching your breath Choking sensation or lump in your throat Excessive sweating Lightheadedness or dizziness Nausea or stomach problems Tingling or numbness in parts of your body Chills or hot flashes Shaking or trembling Feelings of unreality, or being detached from your body

3) During these episodes, do you have the urge to flee, or the feeling that you need to escape?

4) During these episodes, do you think something terrible might happen--that you might die, have a heart attack, suffocate, lose control, or embarrass yourself?

5) Do you worry a lot about these episodes or fear that they will happen again?

6) Does this fear cause you to avoid places or situations that you think might have triggered the attack?

If you answered YES to most of these questions, chances are you are suffering from panic disorder. If so, you are not alone. More than three million American adults have, or will have, panic disorder. The good news is that effective treatments are available and can offer substantial relief in 70 to 80 percent of people suffering from panic disorder.

If you think you or someone you know might have panic disorder, call 1-800-64-PANIC for information that can help.