Panic disorder is marked by episodes that include which of the following?

Panic disorder is characterized by recurring, unexpected panic attacks, which manifest as intense episodes of fear or discomfort. During these episodes, individuals often experience a range of physical symptoms and cognitive distress, such as a sense of imminent danger, increased heart rate, sweating, trembling, feelings of choking, and a fear of losing control or "going crazy."

The defining feature of panic disorder is the unpredictability of these attacks, which can come on suddenly and last for a matter of minutes, often leaving individuals feeling overwhelmed and in dread of experiencing another episode. This unpredictability and the intense dread felt during the episodes are central to the experience of panic disorder, driving individuals to avoid situations or environments where they fear an attack might occur.

Other options, such as feelings of euphoria, would not align with the hallmark characteristics of panic disorder, as this condition is rooted in fear and anxiety rather than positive emotion. Extreme fatigue and persistent vomiting may be associated with other medical or psychological conditions but do not specifically describe the nature of panic attacks that define panic disorder.