Treatment For Panic Attacks
The first step in getting treatment for panic attacks is to see a healthcare provider. The doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms and perform a physical exam. They will also determine if there are any other conditions that cause your symptoms.
People suffering from panic disorder may feel that their feelings are not being understood. People suffering from panic disorder may also feel lonely.
Signs and symptoms
A panic attack is an experience of intense fear or anxiety that happens suddenly and often without a specific cause. The symptoms include chest discomfort, palpitations, breathing difficulties, feelings like you're choking, numbness, tingling or chills, numbness, sweating, and the feeling that you're losing control. You may feel unsteady, dizzy and find it difficult to concentrate. People with this disorder often feel anxious or tense between attacks and fret about when another will strike. They might avoid places or situations they believe triggered a panic attack. This could lead to the disorder known as agoraphobia, where you are scared to be in open spaces or situations which are difficult to get out from.
If you have a loved one suffering from this disorder, help them to detect an attack and attempt to calm them while the symptoms are occurring. Encourage them to concentrate on a relaxing task such as counting to ten or naming things around them. You can also introduce the technique of grounding that involves putting their hands on a soothing object such as a soft blanket or handkerchief or even smelling something similar to mint.
You should consult a doctor immediately if you suspect you are suffering from a panic attack. They will do an examination of your body to ensure there isn't a medical reason for your symptoms. If there is, they can refer you to an expert in mental health like a psychiatrist or psychologist.
Speak to your doctor if you have any other mental health problems, such as depression or PTSD. You may be suffering from depression, nightmares, flashbacks, or a sense of disconnection if you suffer from PTSD. You may experience sleeplessness or find it difficult to focus on work or relationships. In some cases you may even experience suicidal thoughts. Many sources can provide you with information and support, including your GP or Kids Helpline. Some people notice that their symptoms improve as they age. Others may experience frequent and intense panic attacks throughout their lives.
Diagnosis
People suffering from panic disorders experience frequent unpredictably intense episodes of anxiety. They feel as if they are suffering from a heart attack or a medical condition that is serious. They fear having more attacks and avoid situations in which they might occur. The condition can cause major issues in everyday life, such as relationships and work. The symptoms may affect sleep. Psychotherapy and medication are the two most common treatment options.
The first step in diagnosing is to talk to a doctor or mental health professional. The patient must explain their symptoms, including the frequency they occur. The person will also be asked about their family history and if they have any other mental problems. The doctor might 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 panic disorder and suspects panic disorder, they will ask the patient to explain their symptoms and the time when they manifest. The doctor will also do an assessment of the psychological condition. The doctor will inquire about any other mental health issues the patient has suffered from and their impact on the patient. The doctor will want to understand the patient's routine and stress level.
A psychiatrist, a medical doctor who specializes in mental illness is able to diagnose panic disorder and prescribe medicine. Other health professionals who can help with treatment include psychologists and therapists, nurses and social workers.
treatments for anxiety disorders (or talk therapy) is a form of treatment that involves speaking with an accredited psychologist or counselor about the thoughts and feelings you have. The aim is to alter unhealthy habits and thoughts that contribute to panic attacks. CBT, a type of psychotherapy backed by research is the most widely used treatment for panic disorder. CBT will teach you new ways of thinking and acting so that you can overcome your fears.
Treatment for panic disorder may include medication alone or in combination with psychotherapy. The most commonly prescribed medications for this condition are antidepressants, anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines. Finding the right medication may take some time. It is important to tell your doctor about any symptoms you are experiencing. Many people test multiple medications before they find the one that is right for them.
Treatment
Treatment options for panic disorder include psychotherapy (sometimes called talk therapy) and medications. Talk therapy can help you learn to manage your anxiety and decrease the number of panic attacks you experience. Medication can help reduce the intensity of symptoms and even help you avoid having to take additional medications in the future. Some people are able to combine both treatment options to be the most efficient.
A health professional will probably begin with a physical exam to ensure that there isn't an illness that is the cause of your symptoms. If not an issue, your health care professional will likely refer you to a mental health professional, like psychiatrist or psychologist.
The majority of people who suffer from panic attacks will become better over time, especially those who seek treatment. However, the rate of improvement varies from individual to person. Some people experience several months of symptoms followed by for a long time, they do not experience any symptoms. Some sufferers have persistent symptoms that do not completely go away.
The treatment plan you choose to follow will likely start with cognitive behavioral therapy. This kind of talk therapy can help you change negative thoughts that cause anxiety and panic. You'll also learn to manage stress and develop relaxation techniques. You'll need to practice regularly to benefit from the benefits.
In some instances, your doctor may also prescribe medication. This may be an antidepressant, such as fluoxetine (Prozac) or an 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 been proven to be effective.
The FDA does not regulate herbal products and supplements in the same way as medications and therefore, there are unidentified risks or potentially dangerous interactions with drugs. Although these products can be helpful to some people however, your physician might not recommend them.
It is crucial to have your family and friends who are there to support you and take care of your health. Consume a balanced diet and get enough sleep. Spend time with friends who understand your situation and stay active.
The following is a list of preventions.
If you or someone you know has a panic attack, you should see a medical professional as quickly as possible. This could include your doctor or mental health professionals (such as a psychologist or psychiatrist) or other healthcare professionals like occupational or physiotherapist.
Panic attacks are a sudden feeling of terror or intense anxiety that develops quickly and for no apparent reason. They usually last for a short time and last about 5 to 20 minutes, but they may be more prolonged than that. You may feel breathless or as if your heart is racing. There may be chest pains or feel a sense of impending disaster. There could be other physical symptoms such as a pounding, fluttering or the sensation of a tingling in your heart (heart palpitations) or a sensation that you can't breathe (shortness of breath).
People with panic disorder usually spend a lot of time worrying about having more attacks or what they might mean. This can lead them to avoid situations that they fear might trigger an attack. This could have a negative impact on their lives and hinder them from doing whatever they want to do.
Anxiety disorders like panic disorder can be passed down in families. If a family member with the first degree suffers from the disorder the person has a 40% chance to develop it. Certain medical conditions like cardiac arrhythmias, asthma, IBS, and certain types of medications can be linked with panic disorder.
You can prevent panic attacks by:
Practicing deep breathing exercises to relax your body. You can take anti-anxiety medicines however, only under the supervision by your doctor and for a limited time. Psychotherapists can help you learn stress management techniques and assist you in finding ways to handle your anxiety. Avoiding sugar, caffeine, and other stimulants that could increase anxiety. A good night's sleep will allow you remain alert and focused.
Encourage your family member or friend who suffers with frequent panic attacks to seek help. Keep in mind that panic attacks are not dangerous and that they will improve through treatment.