Well, this is up for debate. There are two main sides to the issue. One is that it is inherited and the argument is that a similar brain pattern or pattern of thinking is passed down through generations. The second theory is that there is some biological mechanism, perhaps a metabolic problem, at the root of the anxiety that is passed along. I agree with the second because I've experienced it myself in my own life. My grandfather had hypoglycemia and many symptoms along with it and so do I, but it's treated with diet. There are many supplements you could try for anxiety. Extreme cases, however, will need help from a doctor.

I think there could certainly be a genetic link; things less obvious like alchoholism are genetic as well, and a whole host of diseases are. Though a panic attack can be considered more behavioral, as the previous poster said, there is a possible link to brain patterns.

There are many homeopathic and psychological ways to treat panic attacks without medication. Meditation, therapy, self-help books, and just generally learning what sets off your attacks and slowly learning to deal with these situations can all help. A repeatable mantra to say during or leading into an attack can help relax your mind and focus it on something aside from the thought or situation that is triggering the attack.

Yes and no, there are many causes to anxiety and some are genetic, some are environmental, some are really unknown. It's a little bit of everything. If your mother and sister have it, you do have a higher chance of having it but that does not mean that you will.

Like I have said before, cognitive behavioral therapy is extremely successful to treat anxiety. Seek the help of a licensed psychologist.