Panic Disorder Test

Why this test may be ordered

• To find out if symptoms such as chest pain, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, and shortness of breath are due to a panic disorder or a physical condition like a heart attack
• If you have had two or more recent panic attacks for no clear reason and are afraid of having more
• To rule out other conditions such as thyroid problems or substance use that can cause similar symptoms

Preparation and collection

You don't need any special preparations for a panic disorder test.

Your health care provider may give you a physical exam and ask about your feelings, mood, and other symptoms. You may also be asked to fill out a series of questions. If blood tests are ordered, a blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm.

There is no risk to having a physical exam or filling out a series of questions. There is very little risk to having a blood test; you may have slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly.

Understanding results

To understand the results of a panic disorder test, your provider will consider your symptoms, medical history, and the results of other tests. The results are not a confirmed diagnosis but help guide next steps.

• Screen-negative (lower-likelihood): Your symptoms are less likely to be caused by a panic disorder. Other physical or mental health conditions may be considered. Limitation: This is a screening assessment, not a diagnostic test. False negatives are possible. Next step: Follow up with your healthcare provider to discuss other possible causes of your symptoms.
• Screen-positive (higher-likelihood): Your symptoms and history suggest a higher likelihood of panic disorder. This may include frequent unexpected panic attacks, ongoing worry about having another attack, and avoiding places or situations due to fear of panic. Limitation: This is a screening assessment, not a confirmed diagnosis. Other conditions such as substance use or physical illness must be ruled out. Next step: Your provider may refer you to a mental health provider for further evaluation and treatment, which may include talk therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, or medication.

• The test is a screening assessment and does not provide a confirmed diagnosis of panic disorder.
• Results must be interpreted in the context of your full medical history and other test results.
• Symptoms of panic attacks can overlap with other conditions such as heart attack, thyroid problems, or substance use, which need to be ruled out.
• The test relies on self-reported symptoms and may be influenced by recall or emotional state.

What to do next

If you are diagnosed with panic disorder, your provider may refer you to a mental health provider for treatment. Treatment options include talk therapy (psychotherapy), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), anti-anxiety or antidepressant medicines, and healthy lifestyle habits such as avoiding alcohol, reducing caffeine, eating regular meals, and getting enough sleep and exercise. Support groups may also be recommended.

• Have you had two or more recent panic attacks for no clear reason?
• Are you afraid of having more panic attacks?
• Do you avoid places or situations because you worry they may cause a panic attack?
• Have you experienced symptoms such as racing heart, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or trembling during these episodes?
• Do you have any other medical conditions or take any substances that could cause similar symptoms?

Evidence source

U.S. National Library of Medicine: Panic Disorder Test