Postpartum Panic Disorder
Panic disorder occurs in approximately 10 percent of postpartum women. The disorder usually appears to come out of nowhere and sufferers fear its return, exacerbating anticipatory anxiety.
The symptoms include:
- Feelings of extreme anxiety
- Recurring panic attacks, including shortness of breath, chest pain, claustrophobia, dizziness, heart palpitations, trembling, tingling or numbness of extremities, inability to think or focus, agitation, and excessive worry or fears
Risk factors include a previous history of panic disorder and thyroid dysfunction.
Panic disorder is treatable. Read more about treatment options.
