Panic Disorder Test
Reviewed
Also called: Panic disorder screening, Panic attack assessment
A panic disorder test can help you find out if certain symptoms are caused by a panic disorder or a physical condition.
Specimen: None (questionnaire and clinical interview)
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 you about your feelings, mood, and other symptoms. Your provider may also order blood tests and/or tests on your heart to rule out a heart attack or other physical conditions such as thyroid problems. You may also be asked to fill out a series of questions about these issues.
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.
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.
- Symptoms fit panic disorder: Symptoms of panic disorder often begin before age 25 but may occur in the mid-30s and include: Frequent, unexpected panic attacks, Ongoing worry about having another panic attack, Avoiding places and situations because you're worried that they may cause a panic attack, Fear of losing control, No other cause of a panic attack, such as substance use, a mental health condition or physical condition. Limitation: While panic disorder is not life-threatening, it can be upsetting and affect your quality of life. Next step: Treatment for panic disorder usually includes one or more of the following: Talk therapy, also called psychotherapy or counseling, to help you understand your feelings.
- Panic attacks without panic disorder: Many people only have one or two panic attacks in their lifetime and get better without treatment. Limitation: If you have panic attacks, it doesn't mean you will develop a panic disorder. Next step: Your provider may also urge you to practice other healthy habits to reduce panic attacks.
- 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.
- 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
Source: U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus). Practices and reference ranges may differ in your country.