http://typesofanxietydisorders.com/anxiety
How to Recognize the Signs and Symptoms of Panic Attack
While anxiety and panic attacks do have similar symptoms there
are differences that you should be aware of.

For instance a panic attack is a sudden surge of overwhelming
fear and anxiety that usually occurs without any clear reason and
without warning.

Most of the time these attacks are a one time occurrence, but
some people experience recurring episodes. Recurring episodes
are often caused by a trigger, like speaking in front of a crowd or
doing a presentation at work.

Panic attacks may also be a part of another disorder such as
depression, panic disorder, or social phobia. These disorders are
generally harmless, but people who suffer with them still feel as if
their life is out of control.

A panic attack can happen anytime, but it usually happens when
you are away from home. You may be at a store shopping, at work
preparing for a presentation, in a class, driving, walking down the
street or even during asleep.

Recurring panic attacks along with persistent anxiety for future
attacks and major changes in behavior can be considered a
panic disorder.

There are two main symptoms of panic disorder:

1 - Phobic avoidance
2 - Anticipatory anxiety

Agoraphobia is traditionally believed a fear of open places or
public places, it literally means "fear of the marketplace."
However, now it is believed that agoraphobia is fear of
experiencing panic attack in a place where help is difficult or
where escape would be difficult.

People with panic disorder stay generally active, although there
are specific situations that they tend to avoid. On the other hand,
agoraphobics limit their activities because of fearful thoughts.
These fearful thoughts can be very damaging to a person's life as
well as relationships with others.

http://typesofanxietydisorders.com/anxiety
How to Recognize the Signs and Symptoms of Panic Attack