Treatment For Panic and Anxiety Attacks
Treatment for anxiety and panic attacks can be achieved through psychotherapy, medication and lifestyle modifications. Doctors can assist patients in managing their symptoms by determining what is the cause of the attack.
They may prescribe benzodiazepines, such as diazepam (Valium) and alprazolam, or beta-blockers, such as propranolol (Inderal), which slows the speed of a heartbeat. Psychotherapy is the process of talking to the therapist in order to learn how to cope with anxiety.
Psychotherapy
A psychiatrist or psychologist can diagnose anxiety and offer counseling (psychotherapy). Many people who suffer from frequent panic attacks consult their primary care doctor who will check for an underlying medical condition. The PCP could refer patients to a mental health specialist based on the root of their panic. The therapist can recommend cognitive behavioral therapy to reduce anxiety.
Cognitive therapy for behavioral issues can help someone identify patterns and behaviors of thinking that lead to an panic attack. Catastrophizing is one, or believing that the worst will occur. This type of thinking might be linked to chemical imbalances within the amygdala and the brain circuitry that regulates anxiety and fear. The Therapist can help the client challenge these thoughts to reduce the chance of having an attack.
Another option is to learn how to manage the physical symptoms of a panic attack. They include a pounding pulse and sweating. The therapist can guide the client in controlled breathing, which is known as mindfulness meditation, which encourages relaxation. The therapist can also teach the client how to create a sleep routine that is efficient and stress-reducing strategies.
Some therapists use exposure therapy as a way to assist someone overcome the avoidance behavior that causes anxiety. For someone who suffers from agoraphobia for example, might be encouraged to confront their fear -- such as crowds, or using public transportation -- one at a time one until they feel more comfortable.
Anti-anxiety, anti-panic, or benzodiazepines may help reduce the intensity of panic attacks. They aren't effective in treating the underlying causes. In fact, long-term usage of these medications can cause dependence and addiction which makes it more difficult to break the cycle of anxiety. Many therapists do not prescribe medications as part of treatment for panic disorder.
Some providers offer sliding scale fees for people with low incomes, or free services. If you have insurance, contact their provider to find out what coverage is available. Some therapists offer online sessions which could be beneficial to those who can't afford to go in person.
Medicines
In addition to treatment, doctors frequently recommend medication as a treatment for panic attacks. Certain antidepressants and anti-anxiety medicines have been proven effective in reducing the frequency, intensity and duration of symptoms. They help by stabilizing the levels of chemical messengers, also known as neurotransmitters within your brain. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly prescribed drugs for panic attacks. These antidepressants increase serotonin levels in the brain, a brain chemical that influences mood. These SSRIs include sertraline (Zoloft), escitalopram (Lexapro) 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. This is a class of antidepressants that includes venlafaxine (Effexor), and duloxetine (Cymbalta).
Beta blockers, which are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure or heart problems, can also reduce anxiety symptoms such as rapid heart rate sweating, trembling voice, and shaking hands. They are not typically prescribed for panic disorder, but could be prescribed if an event that is feared triggers a panic episode.
Benzodiazepines can be used to relieve anxiety symptoms quickly. They can be addictive and withdrawal symptoms may be experienced if you suddenly stop taking them. They can also be dangerous if you combine them with alcohol or other depressants. Health professionals may only recommend them for short-term use.
treatment for generalized anxiety will ask you questions about your mental health as well as family history and your lifestyle when you are suffering from frequent attacks. They will determine whether your attacks are caused by an illness, like thyroid disorders, and will be looking for other contributing factors like negative memories from childhood or other stressors that may contribute to the symptoms.
The most important thing to do when dealing with panic attacks is to realize that they are not harmful. It is also important to learn how to manage them. If you are surrounded by the support of family members they can help by practicing relaxation techniques and staying away from caffeine and other stimulants that may cause them to happen.
Lifestyle changes
Everyone experiences moments of anxiety or panic attacks, if these feelings become persistent and intense and cause your life to be significantly impacted, it may be time to seek out professional assistance. Psychotherapy and medications are usually effective treatments for anxiety disorders.
Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is a term that describes a variety of psychological treatment techniques. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a typical kind of treatment that helps you to recognize and alter negative thoughts and emotions that trigger panic attacks. You can reduce or eliminate anxiety by changing your thoughts and behaviors.
Anti-anxiety medication can also be helpful in managing anxiety and pandemonium. These medications, also referred to as tranquilizers or tranquilizers are sedating and slowing effect on the nervous system. This helps you to feel more calm. Commonly prescribed anti-anxiety medications include benzodiazepines such as alprazolam (Xanax(r)) and lorazepam (Ativan(r)).
A healthy lifestyle can be beneficial in reducing anxiety symptoms. Regular exercise can help lower stress, release hormones that make you feel good and improve mood. Avoiding alcohol, caffeine smoking, and alcohol can aggravate anxiety symptoms. It is also a vital part of maintaining an appropriate life style. Getting at least eight hours of rest every night can help reduce anxiety symptoms and improve cognition.
Engaging in social activities and spending time with friends and family can help to alleviate anxiety. Joining a community of people who share similar concerns can help you figure out that your concerns aren't unique.
A wide range of alternative and complementary medicine (CAM) practices such as yoga meditation and acupuncture have shown promising results in reducing anxiety symptoms. Further clinical trials are required to confirm these results. In the meantime, try to get moderate exercise most days of the week and eat an omnivorous diet of fruits, vegetables and lean proteins as well as whole grains. Avoid foods that are processed, such as alcohol, caffeine, sugar and as they can cause anxiety. Avoid taking herbal supplements before consulting your doctor.
Counseling
A panic attack can cause various symptoms. This includes the heart racing, chest tightness, hyperventilation, and shaking. They may also think they are having a heart attack or that they are dying. The attacks are usually intense for a short period of time, and then disappear. People who experience them frequently may be diagnosed with panic disorder.
To determine if you have panic attacks, your doctor will take a complete medical history and conduct an examination. You will be asked to describe your symptoms and the frequency they occur. They will also look for indications of other health conditions that could cause similar symptoms, for example, the thyroid condition or heart disease.
Talk therapy or psychotherapy with a mental health professional is the most effective treatment of anxiety and panic attacks. It is recommended that you work with a psychologist or psychiatrist. They will be able to help you identify your triggers and help you learn how to deal with them. They may also prescribe medication such as antidepressants to reduce your symptoms and stop them from returning.
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 medications don't work for you, your doctor could alter the dosage or switch to a different kind.
A counselor or therapist will help you to manage your emotions and you could also engage in cognitive behavioral therapy to address negative thoughts and beliefs. This can be a difficult process, but it can give you the tools you need to manage your anxiety and avoid panic attacks in the near future. You can also get support from your family and friends as you learn how to manage your symptoms. More and more health professionals suggest that spouses and partners participate in the treatment process for emotional and physical support. They can help you relax and calm when panic or anxiety attacks happen.