Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder

Your risk for panic attacks and panic disorder may be higher if you:

• Have a family history of panic disorder. You are also at increased risk if you have a parent with either depression or bipolar disorder.
• Have Reference other conditions associated with panic disorder or panic attacks, such as depression.
• Drink alcohol, use illegal drugs, chain-smoke cigarettes, or drink large amounts of coffee or other caffeinated beverages.
• Take medicines known to trigger panic attacks, such as those used to treat asthma or heart problems.
• Have mitral valve prolapse. This is a heart condition in which one of the valves in the heart doesn't close as it should.
• Have had previous, unexpected panic attacks.

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