Substance Abuse and Panic Disorder
There is growing evidence that links substance abuse to panic disorder. Children who suffer from chronic respiratory problems are often plagued by panic attacks. Teens who smoke also show more incidences of panic attacks. This may be due to the fact that smoking inhibits proper breathing and changes respiratory functions that can also cause shortness of breath. These changes can lead to a panic attack.
Although alcohol use may initially ease the symptoms of panic attacks, long term abuse and especially withdrawal can trigger panic attacks. Long term use of stimulants and sedatives also cause panic attacks. Same with alcoholism, withdrawal from abused drugs can also trigger a panic anxiety attack.