Treatment For Panic and Anxiety Attacks
Psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes are all a part of the treatment for panic and anxiety disorders. Doctors can assist patients manage symptoms by determining the root reason for the attack.
natural remedies to treat anxiety may also prescribe beta-blockers, such as propranolol or diazepam to slow a racing heart. Psychotherapy is the process of talking to the therapist in order to learn how to manage anxiety.
Psychotherapy
A psychologist or psychiatrist can diagnose anxiety and offer counseling. Many people who suffer from panic attacks will visit their primary physician who will check for any the root of the problem. The PCP may refer the patient to a mental specialist depending on the reason for the panic attack. The therapist may suggest cognitive behavioral therapy to help reduce anxiety.
Cognitive behavioral therapy can help someone recognize behaviors and patterns of thinking that lead to an panic attack. Catastrophizing is among them, or thinking that the worst could occur. This type of thinking is thought to be a result of chemical imbalances in the amygdala as well as brain circuitry that are involved in processing anxiety and fear. The therapist may teach the client to question these thoughts, which will decrease the likelihood of an attack.
Another option is to learn to manage the physical symptoms that accompany panic attacks like sweating and a heart that is pounding. The therapist can guide the client through controlled breathing, a method known as mindfulness meditation, which promotes relaxation. The therapist can also instruct the client to develop a sleep routine that is efficient and stress-reducing strategies.
Some therapists use exposure therapy as a way to help someone overcome the habit of avoidance that fuels anxiety. For instance, a patient with agoraphobia might be encouraged to face the feared situation -- such as crowds or public transportationone at a time until they feel more comfortable in those settings.
Anti-anxiety, anti-panic or benzodiazepines may help reduce the intensity of panic attacks. They aren't effective in treating the root causes. The long-term use of these medications can cause dependence and addiction. This makes it harder to break the cycle. Many therapists do not prescribe medications as part of the treatment for panic disorder.
Some providers offer sliding scale fees for people with lower incomes, or free services. If you have insurance, check with their provider to inquire about what services are covered. Some therapists provide online sessions which could be beneficial to those who are unable to travel in person.
Medicines
Doctors frequently prescribe medication to treat panic attacks in addition to treatment. Certain antidepressants, such as anti-anxiety medication, have been proven effective in decreasing the frequency, severity and duration of symptoms. They work by stabilizing the levels of chemical messengers referred to as neurotransmitters within your brain. The most commonly used medications to treat anxiety attacks are selective serotonin reuptake reducers (SSRIs). They increase the levels of serotonin in the brain, a chemical that can affect mood. The SSRIs include sertraline (Zoloft), Lexapro (escitalopram) and paroxetine(Paxil). Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, another type of antidepressant, can also decrease anxiety symptoms by increasing the amount of norepinephrine in your brain. They are a class of antidepressants which includes venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta).
Beta blockers are usually prescribed to manage high blood pressure or heart problems. They can also reduce anxiety symptoms, such as a rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling voices, and shaking hands. Healthcare professionals rarely prescribe them for panic disorder, however they may be recommended when a fearful situation triggers a panic attack.
Benzodiazepines can be used to relieve anxiety symptoms quickly. They can be addictive and withdrawal symptoms may occur if you abruptly stop taking them. You could also be in trouble if you mix them with together with other depressants. Health professionals may only recommend them for short-term use.
If you suffer with frequent panic attacks, your physician will conduct a physical examination and ask you questions about your family history, lifestyle, and other mental health conditions. They will determine if your attacks result from an illness like thyroid disease and they will search for other factors that might contribute to the symptoms, including adverse childhood experiences or other stressors.
The most important thing to consider when dealing with panic attacks is to recognize that they aren't harmful and learning to deal with them. If you have loved ones who can help, they should apply relaxation techniques and stay clear of caffeine and other stimulants which can trigger them.
Lifestyle changes
It is important to seek out professional help when you are suffering from extreme anxiety or panic attacks. Psychotherapy and medication are often effective treatments for anxiety disorders.
Psychotherapy, also referred to as talk therapy is a term used to describes various psychological treatment methods. One of the most popular is cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches you how to recognize and change negative thoughts and emotions that cause panic attacks. You can lessen or eliminate anxiety by changing your thoughts and behaviors.
Anti-anxiety medications can also be helpful in reducing anxiety and panic. These medications, sometimes referred to as tranquilizers, can slow down the nervous system and produce an sedative effect that makes you feel calmer. Benzodiazepines such as lorazepam and alprazolam, which are also known as Xanax (r) or Ativan (r) and are often prescribed to treat anxiety.
A healthy lifestyle can help relieve anxiety symptoms. Regular exercise can help reduce stress, release happy hormones and boost your mood. Avoiding caffeine, alcohol smoking, and drinking alcohol can increase anxiety symptoms. A good night's sleep is a crucial aspect of a healthy life style. At least eight hours of sleep each night can help alleviate anxiety symptoms and enhance cognition.
Participating in social activities and spending time with family and friends can help you ease anxiety. Joining a support group can also be a great opportunity to connect with others with similar concerns and learn that you are not alone.
In addition, a wide range of CAM (complementary and alternative medicine) practices, such as yoga, meditation and acupuncture, have shown promising results in relieving anxiety symptoms. Further clinical trials are needed to confirm these results. In the meantime you should moderately exercise throughout the week and eat healthy meals that are rich in fruits, vegetables and lean proteins. Avoid foods that contain alcohol, sugar, or caffeine, as they can increase anxiety. Also, do not take herbal supplements unless you discuss them with your healthcare provider first.
Counseling
If a person is experiencing panic attacks is experiencing panic attacks, they can experience different symptoms, such as a pounding heart, tightness in the chest shake, hyperventilation dizziness and chills. They might also believe they are having a heart attack or that they are dying. The attacks tend to be intense for a short period of time, and then disappear. People who suffer from them often may be diagnosed as having panic disorder.
Your doctor will ask you to provide your medical history in detail, and perform a physical examination in order to determine whether panic attacks are present. They will also ask you to identify the symptoms and when they occur. They will also check for any other health issues that may cause similar symptoms. For example, a thyroid issue or heart disease.
Psychotherapy or talk therapy with a mental health professional is the most effective method of treatment of panic and anxiety attacks. It is usually recommended that you consult a psychiatrist or psychologist. They can assist you in identifying triggers and show you how to manage. They may prescribe antidepressants to ease symptoms and prevent the recurrence.
Medications such as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) or SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors), can decrease the frequency of your panic and anxiety attacks, but they won't make them completely go away. If the medication doesn't work for you, your doctor may change your dosage or switch to a different type.
A therapist or counselor could assist you in managing your emotions. You might also do cognitive behavioral therapy to address unhelpful beliefs and thoughts. This can be a difficult process, but you'll be able to use the tools to manage your anxiety. You can also seek out assistance from your family and acquaintances as you learn to manage your symptoms. Health professionals are increasingly suggest that spouses and partners participate in the treatment process to provide physical and emotional support. They can do relaxation exercises with you and be a calming presence when your anxiety or panic attacks start to flare up.