What is a Panic Attack?

According to the Anxiety Disorders Association of America, a Panic Attack is defined as the abrupt onset of an episode of intense fear or discomfort, which peaks in approximately 10 minutes, and includes at least four of the following symptoms:

'a feeling of imminent danger or doom

'the need to escape

'palpitations

'sweating

'trembling

'shortness of breath or a smothering