Which anxiety disorder involves recurrent panic attacks?

Panic Disorder is characterized specifically by the occurrence of recurrent panic attacks. These attacks are sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort that reach a peak within minutes and can manifest in physical symptoms like heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, and feelings of impending doom. The hallmark of Panic Disorder is that these panic attacks can happen unexpectedly and frequently, leading to significant behavioral changes and the avoidance of situations where one fears another attack may occur.

In contrast, Social Anxiety Disorder primarily involves fear and avoidance of social situations due to concerns about being judged or embarrassed. Generalized Anxiety Disorder is characterized by excessive worry that is difficult to control about various aspects of life, rather than specific episodes of intense fear. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is marked by unwanted and intrusive thoughts (obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviors (compulsions) aimed at reducing anxiety. Each of these other disorders has distinct features that do not revolve around the recurrent panic attacks defined in Panic Disorder.