Panic and anxiety disorders are chronic conditions that many people find crippling. They are real illnesses, much more overwhelming and unsettling than the normal anxiety we all experience from time to time. They can be treated and controlled.

It seems that the pressures of modern life, with its focus on speed and performance, are taking its toll. Anxiety panic disorders are becoming more and more common, both children and adults are affected. Today, more than 20 million Americans suffer from these disorders.

Anxiety is considered normal and even beneficial part of a human experience. It's a natural reaction to stress - it stimulates us to improve our performance and helps us to avoid dangerous situations. But when it becomes an excessive everyday companion, it has become a disabling disorder.

Signs and symptoms vary from person to person. Some may experience extreme attacks that strike without warning, some have a disabling fear of driving, others get panicky when socializing or being in a crowded space, and others live in a constant state of tension and fear. All have one thing in common: severe fear or phobia in situations where most people would be fine.

Symptoms differ on an individual basis. Depending on the type of the disorder they also vary in strength and duration. They include: increased heart rate, chest pain (people sometimes mistake panic attack for a heart attack), dizziness, nausea, difficulty breathing, paranoia, trembling, dry mouth, feelings of dread, feeling of losing control, hyperventilation, fear that you're about to die, etc.

What are the causes of anxiety disorders? Causes are many - biological, psychological and environmental. They may be caused by imbalances in brain chemistry, a genetic predisposition, different physical conditions, life events, personality, stress, or the combination of the above.

If you suffer from any form of anxiety disorder, don't feel embarrassed or alone. Remember, most anxiety disorders can be cured or greatly improved.