Treatment For Panic and Anxiety Attacks

Treatment for panic and anxiety attacks involves psychotherapy, medications and lifestyle changes. Doctors can assist patients in managing their symptoms by determining the cause of the attack.

They may also prescribe beta-blockers, like diazepam or propranolol to slow the speed of a pulse. Psychotherapy is a way to overcome anxiety by talking to the psychotherapist.

Psychotherapy

A psychiatrist or psychologist can diagnose anxiety and offer counseling. People who suffer from frequent panic attacks visit an primary care physician who will check for an underlying medical condition. Depending on the cause of the panic, the PCP might refer the patient to a mental health professional. The therapist can suggest cognitive behavioral therapy to help reduce anxiety.

Cognitive therapy for behavioral issues can help people recognize patterns of behavior and thinking that lead to an episode of panic. Catastrophizing is one of them or thinking that the worst could happen. This type of thinking might be related to chemical imbalances in the amygdala and the brain circuitry that processes anxiety and fear. The therapist may teach the client to challenge these thoughts, which should reduce the chance of having an attack.

Another method is to learn how to manage the physical symptoms that come with panic attacks, such as a pounding heart and sweating. The Therapist can guide the patient in controlled breathing, which is called mindfulness meditation that promotes relaxation. In addition the therapist can guide the client how to create an effective sleep routine as well as stress reduction strategies.

Therapists may use exposure therapy as a method to help people overcome the avoidance behavior that causes anxiety. For someone who suffers from agoraphobia for example, might be encouraged to face their fears -- like crowds or public transport -- one by one until they feel more comfortable.

Anti-anxiety, anti-panic, or benzodiazepines can reduce the intensity of panic attacks. They are not effective in treating the underlying causes. Long-term use of these drugs can cause dependence and addiction. This makes it difficult to stop the cycle. Many therapists do not prescribe medication as part of the treatment of panic disorder.

Some providers offer sliding scale fees for people with low incomes, or free services. If you are insured and want to inquire with your provider see what coverage they offer. Some therapists offer online sessions that can be beneficial for those who are unable to go in person.

Medicines

Doctors often prescribe medications to treat panic attacks in addition to treatment. Some antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs have been proven to be effective in reducing the frequency, intensity and duration of symptoms. They are effective in stabilizing the levels of chemical messengers referred to as neurotransmitters in the brain. The most common medicines used to combat anxiety attacks are selective serotonin reducers (SSRIs). These are a group of antidepressants which increase the amount of serotonin a natural methods to treat anxiety brain chemical that influences mood, in your brain. The SSRIs are 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. This is a category of antidepressants which includes venlafaxine, (Effexor), and duloxetine, (Cymbalta).

Beta blockers, which are usually prescribed to manage high Functioning anxiety Treatment blood pressure or heart problems they can also ease anxiety symptoms, such as a rapid heart rate sweating, trembling voice, and shaking hands. They are not typically prescribed for panic disorder but could be prescribed if a feared event triggers a panic episode.

Benzodiazepines can be used to relieve anxiety symptoms quickly. However, they are addictive and can cause withdrawal if you stop taking them suddenly. You could also be in trouble if you combine them with together with other depressants. They are usually only recommended for short-term usage by health care providers.

If you are suffering with frequent panic attacks, your physician will conduct a physical examination and ask questions about your family history, lifestyle and other mental health issues. They will determine if your attacks are triggered by a medical issue, like thyroid disease, and they will look for other causes that could be contributing to the symptoms, such as adverse childhood experiences or other stressors.

The most important thing to remember in treating panic attacks is to understand that they aren't harmful. It is also important to learn how to manage them. If you have the support of family members they can help by practicing relaxation techniques and avoiding caffeine and other stimulants that could trigger them.

Lifestyle changes

It is essential to seek professional help in the event of extreme anxiety or panic attacks. Psychotherapy and medication are often effective treatments for anxiety disorders.

Talk therapy is another name for psychotherapy. It is a broad range of psychological treatment methods. One of the most popular is cognitive behavioral therapy which teaches you to recognize and modify negative thoughts and emotions that trigger panic attacks. You can reduce or eliminate panic by changing your behavior and reactions.

Anti-anxiety panic attack treatment medications can also be helpful in reducing anxiety and panic. These medications, sometimes referred to as tranquilizers, can reduce the activity of the nervous system and provide a sedating effect that helps you feel more relaxed. Commonly prescribed anti-anxiety medications include the benzodiazepines like alprazolam (Xanax(r)) and lorazepam (Ativan(r)).

A healthy lifestyle can also be beneficial in reducing anxiety symptoms. Regular exercise can reduce anxiety, release positive hormones and boost mood. Avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and smoking can worsen anxiety symptoms. A healthy lifestyle requires adequate sleep. Sleeping at least eight hours every night can reduce anxiety treatment symptoms symptoms and improve cognitive function.

Spending time with family and friends, and participating in social activities can alleviate anxiety. Being part of a group who have similar issues will help you find out that your concerns are not unique.

A variety of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices such as yoga meditation and acupuncture demonstrate promising results for improving anxiety symptoms. However, more clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings. In the interim you should moderately exercise most days of the weeks and eat a healthy diet that is high in vegetables, fruits and proteins. Avoid foods that contain alcohol, processed sugar, and caffeine, since they can increase anxiety. Avoid taking herbal supplements before consulting your physician.

Counseling

When a person has an attack of panic it is possible that they experience various symptoms, like the heart beating faster tightness in the chest shake, hyperventilation chills and dizziness. They may also believe that they are experiencing a heart attack or that they are dying. The attacks usually peak within minutes, and then disappear. People who experience them frequently might be diagnosed with panic disorder.

Your doctor will require you to give a detailed medical history, and perform an examination to determine whether you are suffering from panic attacks. You will be asked to explain your symptoms and how frequently they occur. They will also search for any other health issues that may cause similar symptoms. For instance thyroid issues or heart disease.

The most effective treatment for panic and anxiety attacks is psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, under the supervision of a mental health professional. It is generally advised to consult a psychologist or psychiatrist. They will be able to assist you in identifying your triggers and show you how to manage them. They may prescribe antidepressants to reduce 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 your medication doesn't work your doctor might alter the dosage or switch to a different type.

A counselor or therapist will help you to manage your emotions, and you could also engage in cognitive behavioral therapy to tackle unhelpful thoughts and beliefs. This can be a difficult process, but you'll be able to use the tools to manage your anxiety. You can also seek out support from your family members and acquaintances as you learn to manage your symptoms. In fact there are increasing numbers of health professionals are recommending that spouses or partners join in the treatment process to offer emotional and physical assistance. They can do relaxation exercises with you and be an calming presence when anxiety or panic attacks begin to pop up.