Treatment For Panic Attacks
The first step to get treatment for panic attacks is to visit a healthcare provider. The doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms, and perform a physical examination. They will determine if other medical conditions are causing the symptoms.
People with panic disorder may feel that their experiences aren't understood fully. People suffering from panic disorder might feel lonely.
Signs and symptoms
A panic attack is a sudden, usually brief, and short-lived bout of intense fear and anxiety that is not ascribed to a specific cause. Symptoms can include chest pain or discomfort or palpitations (accelerated heart rate) and breathing problems or feeling of choking, sweating and chills, and an impression that you're losing control. You may feel unsteady or dizzy, and you may have difficulty concentration. People with this disorder feel anxious and tense between attacks, and fear that another attack will occur. They might avoid situations or places that they believe triggered a panic attack. This could lead to an anxiety disorder known as agoraphobia. you are afraid to be in areas that are open or situations that are difficult to get out from.
If you know someone who suffers from this condition, try to calm them when they are experiencing symptoms. Help them focus on a relaxing task like counting to ten or naming objects around them. They can also try the practice of grounding which involves touching something soothing like a soft blanket or handkerchief, or smelling a particular scent, like mint.
You should consult an expert in health care immediately if you are experiencing an anxiety attack. They will do an examination of your body to make sure there isn't a medical reason for your symptoms. If there is, they may refer you to a mental health professional for help, such as psychologist or psychiatrist.
Speak to your doctor if you have any other mental health problems, such as depression or PTSD. If you suffer from PTSD you may suffer from depression, nightmares, flashbacks, and feelings of disconnection or feeling disconnected. You may experience sleeplessness or find it difficult to concentrate on relationships or work. You may also experience suicidal thoughts in some instances. Many sources can provide you with advice and support, such as your GP or Kids Helpline. Some people might find that their symptoms are worse as they age. Certain people experience panic attacks that are frequent and intense throughout their lives.
Diagnosis
People with panic disorder are prone to recurring and sudden periods of intense anxiety that feel like they're having an attack on their heart or another serious medical problem. They fear having an attack again, and they avoid situations that may trigger the symptoms. The condition can cause serious issues which can affect work and relationships. The symptoms can also disrupt sleep. Psychotherapy and medication are the two most common treatment options.
The first step in diagnosis is to talk to the doctor or mental health professional. The patient must describe their symptoms and how often they happen. The patient will also be asked about their family history, and if they have any other mental problems. The doctor might run tests to rule out physical causes for the symptoms, such the use of a blood test or imaging. These tests are typically normal.
If the doctor suspects panic disorder and suspects panic disorder, they will ask the patient to identify their symptoms and when they manifest. The doctor will also do an evaluation of the psychological state. The doctor will inquire about any other mental health conditions the patient has suffered from and their effects on the patient. The doctor will want to understand the patient's routine and stress levels.
A psychiatrist, a medical professional who is skilled in treating mental illness and panic disorders, can diagnose the disorder and prescribe medications. Other health professionals who can aid in treatment include psychologists and therapists, nurses and social workers.
Talk therapy (or psychotherapy) is a therapy that involves discussing your thoughts and feelings with a counselor or psychologist. The goal is to change unhealthy behaviors and thoughts that cause panic attacks. CBT, a type of psychotherapy that is supported by research is the most widely used treatment for panic disorder. CBT provides new ways of thinking and behavior to help you overcome your fears.
Treatment for panic disorder can include medication alone or in combination psychotherapy. The most common medicines prescribed for this condition include antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs, and benzodiazepines. Finding the right medication may take some time. It's important to tell your doctor what you feel. Many people try a variety of medications before finding the one that is effective for them.
Treatment
Treatment options for panic disorder include psychotherapy (sometimes called talk therapy) and medications. Talk therapy can help you learn to control your fears and reduce the number of panic attacks you experience. Medication can reduce the severity of your symptoms and can aid in avoiding the need for other medication in the future. Some people find that using a combination of both treatments is best.
A health professional will likely begin by conducting a physical exam to make sure there isn't a medical condition that is causing your symptoms. If there isn't, your health provider will likely refer you to a mental healthcare professional, such psychiatrists or psychologists.
The majority of people who suffer from panic attacks will become better over time, particularly those who seek treatment. But the rate of improvement differs from person to person. Some sufferers experience a few months or years of frequent symptoms, then many years of symptom-free. Others suffer from persistent, recurring symptoms that don't disappear completely.
The treatment plan you choose to follow will likely begin with cognitive behavior therapy. This type of talk therapy can help you overcome negative thoughts that can cause anxiety and panic. You'll also learn to manage stress and learn relaxation techniques. You'll need daily practice to get the benefits.
In some instances, your doctor might also prescribe medication. It could be an antidepressant, such as fluoxetine (Prozac), or a serotonin. The benzodiazepines alprazolam (Xanax) and clonazepam (Klonopin), for example were approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating panic disorder. In a number of double-blind studies tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine and clomipramine have also been shown to be effective.
The FDA doesn't monitor herbal products and supplements in the same way as prescription drugs therefore there could be unknown risks or risky interactions with drugs. Although these supplements could be beneficial to some people but your doctor might not recommend them.
It is important to have the support of family and friends, as well as to take care of yourself physically. Make sure you get enough sleep and eat a healthy, balanced diet. Stay active, and spend time with people who understand what you're going through.
The following is a list of preventatives.
If you or someone else you know is suffering from panic attacks it is crucial to see an expert in healthcare right away. This can include your GP and mental health professionals (such as a psychologist or psychiatrist) or other health professionals such as occupational or physiotherapist.
Panic attacks are a sudden feeling of terror or intense anxiety that develops quickly and for no apparent reason. They are usually short and last between 5 and 20 minutes, but they can linger much longer than that. When you experience a panic attack you may feel breathless, as though your heart is racing and you might have chest pain or feelings of imminent danger. You might also experience other physical symptoms, like a pounding heart or racing heart (heart palpitations), or an uneasy feeling that you can't breathe (shortness or breath).
People with panic disorder often spend lots of time worrying about recurring attacks or worrying about what they might mean. This can lead them to avoid situations they fear will cause an attack. This can have a significant impact on their lives and stop them from doing what they would like to do.
Anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder can run through families. A person has a 40% chance of developing the condition in the event that one of their relatives in the first degree has it. Certain medical conditions such as asthma, cardiac arrhythmias, irritable bowel syndrome and some kinds of medications can be linked with panic disorder.
A few of the ways you can do to stop panic attacks include:
Deep breathing exercises can help you relax. taking anti-anxiety medication but only for a short period of time and always under doctor's supervision. Talking with a psychotherapist who can help you learn strategies for managing stress and advise you on ways to deal with your fears. Avoiding caffeine, sugar and other stimulants that could increase anxiety. Getting enough sleep to keep you alert and focused.
Encourage the family member or a friend who suffers with frequent panic attacks to seek treatment. Be aware that these attacks aren't harmful and will get better through treatment.