Clinical finding · Australian terminology

Panic attack

Definition

A sudden episode of intense fear or discomfort with rapidly developing physical and cognitive symptoms.

Source linked1 covered source

A sudden episode of intense fear or discomfort with rapidly developing physical and cognitive symptoms. The term should be interpreted alongside the person's account, the observed context and other relevant clinical information.

Record what was reported and what was observed separately where that distinction matters.
Describe change over time, relevant context and effect on daily functioning.

These related entries share a topic but may describe different kinds of finding, context or clinical task. Open each definition before treating the terms as interchangeable.

Source checking confirms that the published wording is supported by the cited material. It does not mean specialist clinical approval; new wording remains approval pending.

Healthdirect Australia: Mental health conditions

Clinical finding · Australian terminology

Panic attack

Definition

A sudden episode of intense fear or discomfort with rapidly developing physical and cognitive symptoms.

Topic: Anxiety, trauma and dissociation

Source linked1 covered source

Record what was reported and what was observed separately where that distinction matters.
Describe change over time, relevant context and effect on daily functioning.

These related entries share a topic but may describe different kinds of finding, context or clinical task. Open each definition before treating the terms as interchangeable.

Source checking confirms that the published wording is supported by the cited material. It does not mean specialist clinical approval; new wording remains approval pending.

Healthdirect Australia: Mental health conditions