Treatment For Panic Attacks
The first step to receive treatment for panic attacks is to see an experienced healthcare professional. The provider will ask questions about your symptoms and do a physical exam. They will ensure that no other issues are causing them.
People suffering from panic disorder might feel that their feelings are not fully understood. People suffering from panic disorder may feel lonely.
Signs and symptoms
A panic attack is an episode of intense fear or anxiety that happens suddenly and often without a specific cause. Symptoms can include chest discomfort or pain or palpitations (accelerated heart rate) and breathing problems or feeling of choking, numbness or tingling, chills and sweating, and the feeling that you are losing control. You might be unsteady or dizzy and you may have difficulty staying focused. People with this disorder often feel anxious or tense between attacks and worry about when another attack will occur. They may avoid situations or places they believe caused an panic attack. This can result in an anxiety disorder known as agoraphobia. you are scared to be in areas that are open or situations that would be difficult to escape from.
If you know a loved one suffering from this disorder, assist them detect an attack and attempt to calm them while the symptoms are occurring. Encourage them to take a deep breath and focus on a pleasant activity, such as making a list of things around them or counting to 10. You can also introduce the practice of grounding, which involves putting their hands on a soothing object like a handkerchief or soft blanket or smelling something that resembles mint.
You should see a health care provider immediately if you have an anxiety attack. They will do a physical exam to ensure that there isn't any medical cause for your symptoms. If there is, they will refer you to an expert in mental health, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist.
Speak to your doctor if you have any other mental health problems, such as depression or PTSD. You may experience depression, nightmares or flashbacks, or a sense of disconnection if you suffer from PTSD. You might have difficulty sleeping or find it difficult to concentrate on work or relationships. In some instances you may even experience suicidal thoughts. Many resources can offer information and support, including your GP or Kids Helpline. Some people find that their symptoms diminish as they age. Some people suffer from panic attacks that are frequent and intense throughout their lives.
Diagnosis
People with panic disorder experience recurrent or sudden periods of intense anxiety that feel like they're having an attack on their heart or another serious medical problem. They fear having more attacks and are hesitant to engage in situations that may trigger them. The condition can cause major problems in daily life, such as work and relationships. The symptoms can also disrupt sleep. Psychotherapy and medication are the two main treatment options.
Talking to a mental health professional or doctor is the first step. The person must describe their symptoms, as well as the frequency at which they are present. The patient will also be asked about their family history, and if they have any other mental disorders. The doctor may conduct tests to determine physical causes for the symptoms, like an imaging test or blood test. These tests are typically normal.
If a doctor suspects that a patient has panic disorder, they will ask the patient to identify their symptoms and when they manifest. The doctor will also do an assessment of the psychological condition. The doctor will also inquire about any other mental health conditions or anxiety disorders the patient has had and their effects. The doctor will also want to know about the patient's current stress level and daily routine.
A psychiatrist, a medical doctor who is specialized in mental illness is able to diagnose panic disorder and prescribe medication. Psychologists, therapists, and social workers are also health professionals who can provide treatment.
Talk therapy (or psychotherapy) is a treatment that involves talking about your feelings and thoughts with a psychologist or counselor. The goal is to change unhealthy habits and thoughts that contribute to panic attacks. CBT, a type of psychotherapy that is supported by research is the most widely used treatment for panic disorder. CBT teaches you new ways of thinking and behavior to overcome your fears.
Treatment for panic disorder could consist of medication on its own or in combination with psychotherapy. Antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs and benzodiazepines are among the most commonly prescribed medicines for this condition. It can take time to determine the best medication for you and it's essential to be honest with your doctor about what you're experiencing. Many people will try multiple medications before they find the one that is right for them.
Treatment
Psychotherapy (also called talk therapy) and medications are two of the options for treating panic disorder. Talk therapy can help you control your anxiety and decrease panic attacks. Treatment can help reduce the severity of your symptoms, and can assist you in avoiding the need for other medications in the future. Some people find that a combination of both treatments works best.
A health care provider will begin by conducting an examination to determine whether your symptoms are due to a medical condition. If not then your doctor will likely refer you to a mental healthcare professional, such a psychologist or psychiatrist.
The majority of people who suffer from a panic disorder will improve with time, particularly if they seek medical treatment. The rate of improvement could vary from person to person. Some sufferers have months or even years of frequent symptoms, and then a few years without symptoms. Some suffer from persistent, recurring symptoms that never go away completely.
The treatment plan you choose to follow is likely to start with cognitive behavioral therapy. This kind of therapy can help you change negative thoughts that trigger anxiety and panic. You will also learn to manage stress, and practice relaxation techniques. These are skills that you must regularly practice to reap the maximum benefit.
In some instances, your doctor will also prescribe an medication. This may be an antidepressant, such as fluoxetine (Prozac) or a tranquilizer. The benzodiazepines alprazolam (Xanax) and Clonazepam (Klonopin) for instance have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating panic disorder. In several double-blind trials, tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine and clomipramine have been proven to be effective.
Herbal supplements and dietary products aren't regulated by the FDA the same way that medicines are, therefore they might have unknown risks or dangerous interactions with other medications. Your doctor may not recommend them even though some people find these substances helpful in controlling their symptoms.
It is important to have the support of family and friends, as well as to take health care of yourself physically. Eat a healthy diet and get enough rest. Stay active, and spend time with people who are able to understand what you're going through.
The following is a list of preventions.
If you or someone else you know is having a panic attack it is crucial to see an expert in healthcare right away. This includes your doctor or mental health professionals (such as a psychologist or psychiatrist) or allied healthcare professionals such as occupational or physiotherapist.
A panic attack is an intense, sudden feeling of anxiety or terror. It can happen suddenly and without apparent cause. They tend to be brief and last anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes, but they can linger much longer than that. During disorders anxiety , you may feel shaky, as though your heart is racing and you may experience chest pain or feelings of impending death. You may also experience other physical symptoms, including an euphoric heart, racing heart (heart palpitations), or an uneasy feeling that you can't breathe (shortness or breath).
People suffering from panic disorders usually spend a significant amount of time worrying about whether they'll experience more attacks or what the attacks could be referring to. This can cause them to avoid situations they fear could trigger an attack. This can have an impact on their daily lives and hinder them from doing whatever they want to.
Anxiety disorders, like panic disorder, can be passed down through families. If a family member with the first degree suffers from the disorder there is an increased chance of having it. develop it. Some medical conditions, like asthma, cardiac arrhythmias and irritable bowel disorder are also linked with panic disorder.
You can help prevent panic attacks by:
Deep breathing exercises can help you relax. Take anti-anxiety medications, but only under the supervision of your physician and for a brief period. Talking to a therapist who can help you learn strategies for managing stress and guide you on ways to cope with your fears. Avoiding sugar, caffeine and other stimulants that can aggravate anxiety. A good night's sleep will allow you stay alert and focused.
If you know a friend or family member who has frequent panic attacks, be there for them and encourage them to seek treatment. Be aware that these attacks aren't dangerous and will get better with treatment.