Panic attacks usually last about 30 minutes but it can seem like a lifetime. A sudden, overwhelming sense of fear, danger and impending doom comes out of nowhere, unrelated to any real threat. The terrified sufferer usually thinks he's having a heart attack and fears for his life.
Symptoms are rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, dizziness, chills, hot flashes, sweating, hyperventilation, abdominal cramping, chest pain, headache, trouble swallowing, and nausea. These symptoms can also indicate illness or disease. Prompt medical attention is important.
Medical conditions need to be ruled out. Hypoglycemia and hyperthyroidism can be the cause of anxiety attacks. When the underlying condition is treated, the anxiety disappears. Withdrawal from illegal drugs and addictive prescription medications can be accompanied by terrifying anxiety. Some prescription medications list anxiety and nervousness as possible side effects.
Sometimes a panic attack is a once in a lifetime event. Panic Disorder is a chronic condition of recurring panic attacks affecting a person's ability to live a normal life. Worrying when the next episode of terror will happen can lead to depression, substance abuse, avoidance of social situations, phobias, even agoraphobia, a fear of leaving the home. Avoidance leads to a growing list of places and situations to avoid. The sooner this disorder is diagnosed, the shorter the path to recovery.
Causes are unknown. There seems to be a genetic component but for some individuals it may also be a learned response. Stress seems to play a role as the condition is sometimes proceeded by a trauma, such as a death in the family, an accident, or an assault.
Identifying places or situations that trigger attacks helps with managing the condition, not to avoid but to prepare and practice coping skills. Once a doctor has ruled out medical conditions sedatives may be prescribed, while a psychiatrist or psychologist helps the patient find their triggers, and teaches coping skills to reduce the number and severity of attacks.
A few tips for dealing with an attack as it begins; distract, relax, or meditate. Distract your brain with calm, problem solving activities like crossword puzzles. Splash water on your face to slow down reactions. Count backwards from 100, or solve random math problems. Walk, jog, or pace to release endorphins. Meditation and relaxation techniques can be very helpful. Relaxation techniques concentrate on relaxing the body. Breathe deeply and concentrate on relaxing muscles. Meditation focuses on relaxing the mind and can be very effective with a little practice.
Some sufferers are encouraged by joining a support group. It's also important to stay away from alcohol, drugs, and caffeine as these substances have been documented to trigger and increase severity of attacks. Don't wait for an episode to practice coping skills. Make it a daily habit to manage stress, and practice relaxation and meditation techniques. Keep active. Regular physical exercise with sufficient sleep reduces occurrences.
Of those who experience a panic attack, over 60% will have recurring episodes requiring treatment. Depression is a common side effect. The cause of recurring panic attacks may not be known, but it is a serious condition requiring treatment. Panic Disorder is not a simple response to stress. Symptoms will not go away on their own.
Symptoms are rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, dizziness, chills, hot flashes, sweating, hyperventilation, abdominal cramping, chest pain, headache, trouble swallowing, and nausea. These symptoms can also indicate illness or disease. Prompt medical attention is important.
Medical conditions need to be ruled out. Hypoglycemia and hyperthyroidism can be the cause of anxiety attacks. When the underlying condition is treated, the anxiety disappears. Withdrawal from illegal drugs and addictive prescription medications can be accompanied by terrifying anxiety. Some prescription medications list anxiety and nervousness as possible side effects.
Sometimes a panic attack is a once in a lifetime event. Panic Disorder is a chronic condition of recurring panic attacks affecting a person's ability to live a normal life. Worrying when the next episode of terror will happen can lead to depression, substance abuse, avoidance of social situations, phobias, even agoraphobia, a fear of leaving the home. Avoidance leads to a growing list of places and situations to avoid. The sooner this disorder is diagnosed, the shorter the path to recovery.
Causes are unknown. There seems to be a genetic component but for some individuals it may also be a learned response. Stress seems to play a role as the condition is sometimes proceeded by a trauma, such as a death in the family, an accident, or an assault.
Identifying places or situations that trigger attacks helps with managing the condition, not to avoid but to prepare and practice coping skills. Once a doctor has ruled out medical conditions sedatives may be prescribed, while a psychiatrist or psychologist helps the patient find their triggers, and teaches coping skills to reduce the number and severity of attacks.
A few tips for dealing with an attack as it begins; distract, relax, or meditate. Distract your brain with calm, problem solving activities like crossword puzzles. Splash water on your face to slow down reactions. Count backwards from 100, or solve random math problems. Walk, jog, or pace to release endorphins. Meditation and relaxation techniques can be very helpful. Relaxation techniques concentrate on relaxing the body. Breathe deeply and concentrate on relaxing muscles. Meditation focuses on relaxing the mind and can be very effective with a little practice.
Some sufferers are encouraged by joining a support group. It's also important to stay away from alcohol, drugs, and caffeine as these substances have been documented to trigger and increase severity of attacks. Don't wait for an episode to practice coping skills. Make it a daily habit to manage stress, and practice relaxation and meditation techniques. Keep active. Regular physical exercise with sufficient sleep reduces occurrences.
Of those who experience a panic attack, over 60% will have recurring episodes requiring treatment. Depression is a common side effect. The cause of recurring panic attacks may not be known, but it is a serious condition requiring treatment. Panic Disorder is not a simple response to stress. Symptoms will not go away on their own.
About the Author:
Steve Pavilanis can teach anyone how to stop a panic attack naturally and effectively. A former anxiety patient, he wrote a book about anxiety and today shows people natural anxiety relief techniques that really work.
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