Treatment For Panic and Anxiety Attacks

Treatment for panic and anxiety attacks can be achieved through psychotherapy, medication and lifestyle modifications. Doctors can assist patients in managing their symptoms by determining the root of the attack.

They may prescribe benzodiazepines, such as diazepam (Valium) and alprazolam, or beta-blockers like propranolol (Inderal) which slows the heart rate. Psychotherapy is the process of talking to a therapist to learn how to manage anxiety.

Psychotherapy

A psychiatrist or psychologist can diagnose anxiety and provide counseling. People who suffer from panic attacks often visit their primary care provider who will check for any an underlying medical issue. Depending on the cause of the panic, the PCP may refer the patient to a mental health specialist. The therapist may recommend cognitive behavioral therapy to reduce anxiety.

Cognitive behavioral therapy assists individuals identify the behaviors and patterns of thinking that can trigger an episode of panic. Catastrophizing is one of them and also believing that the worst will happen. This type of thinking may be related to chemical imbalances in the amygdala, and the brain circuitry that handles anxiety and fear. The therapist can teach the client to question these thoughts, which should lower the risk of having an attack.

Another method is to understand how to manage the physical manifestations of panic attacks. These include sweating and a pulse that is pounding. The therapist can coach the client through controlled breathing, a technique known as mindfulness meditation, which helps to relax. In addition, the therapist can teach the client how to create an effective sleeping routine and strategies to reduce stress.

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

Medications such as anti-anxiety or anti-panic medications, or benzodiazepines, can be useful in decreasing the intensity of panic attacks. They are not effective in treating the root causes. In the long run, these drugs can lead to addiction and dependence. This makes it difficult to stop the cycle. A lot of therapists don't prescribe medications to treat panic disorder.

Some providers offer sliding scale fees for those with low incomes, or free services. Insurance holders should contact their provider to find out what is best treatment For anxiety options are available. Some therapists provide online sessions which can be helpful for those who can't afford to travel in person.

Medicines

In addition to treatment, doctors frequently prescribe medication for panic attacks. Certain antidepressants and anti-anxiety medicines have been proven to be effective in reducing the frequency, intensity and duration of symptoms. These medications work by stabilizing the levels of chemical messengers, also known as neurotransmitters in the brain. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly used medicines for panic attacks. They are a class of antidepressants that boost the amount of serotonin, a natural brain chemical that affects mood, in the brain. These SSRIs include sertraline (Zoloft) as well as Escitalopram (Lexapro) and paroxetine (Paxil). Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, another type of antidepressant, can also decrease anxiety depression treatment symptoms by increasing the amount of norepinephrine in your brain. This is a category of antidepressants that includes venlafaxine, (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta).

Beta blockers are often prescribed to manage high blood pressure or heart issues. They also help reduce anxiety symptoms like a sweating, rapid heartbeat hands, trembling voices and shaking hands. Healthcare professionals rarely prescribe them for panic disorder, but they may be recommended if a feared situation triggers panic attacks.

Benzodiazepines can be used to reduce anxiety symptoms quickly. They can be addictive, and withdrawal symptoms can occur if you suddenly stop taking them. They can also be dangerous when combined with alcohol or other depressants. They may only be recommended for short-term use by health professionals.

Your doctor will ask you questions regarding your mental health as well as family history and your lifestyle in the event that you have recurring attacks. They will determine if the attacks are due to a medical condition, like thyroid disorders and also look for other causes like negative memories from childhood or other stressors, that could be contributing to the symptoms.

The most important factor in dealing with panic attacks is to recognize that they aren't harmful and learning to manage them. If you have loved ones who could help, they can apply relaxation techniques and stay clear of caffeine and other stimulants which can trigger them.

Lifestyle changes

It is essential to seek out professional help when you are suffering from extreme anxiety or panic attacks. In most cases, psychotherapy and medications are effective treatments for anxiety disorders.

Psychotherapy, also referred to as talk therapy, is a term that describes various psychological treatment techniques. A common type is cognitive behavioral therapy that teaches you to recognize and alter negative thoughts and emotions that trigger panic attacks. By altering your thoughts and behavior you can decrease or eliminate panic attacks.

Anti-anxiety medications can also be helpful in reducing anxiety and panic. These medications, also referred to as tranquilizers or tranquilizers, have a sedating and slowing effect on the nervous system. This can help you feel more calm. Benzodiazepines such as lorazepam and alprazolam, also referred to as Xanax (r) or Ativan (r) and are often prescribed anti-anxiety medication.

A healthy lifestyle can aid in relieving anxiety symptoms. Regular exercise can help reduce stress, release feel good hormones and improve your mood. It is essential to avoid smoking, drinking and caffeine since they can make your anxiety symptoms worse. Sleeping enough is another key aspect of an active life style. The recommended minimum sleep time of 8 hours each night can ease anxiety symptoms and boost cognitive performance.

Participating in social activities and spending time with friends and family can help to alleviate anxiety. Participating in a support group can also be a good way to meet others who have similar concerns and discover that you are not alone.

A wide range of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices such as yoga meditation and acupuncture show promising results for reducing anxiety symptoms. Further clinical trials are required to confirm these results. In the meantime, try to do moderate exercise most days of the week. Also, eat the diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables and lean proteins, as well as whole grains. Avoid foods containing processed sugar, alcohol and caffeine, as they may increase anxiety. Avoid taking herbal supplements without first consulting your doctor.

Counseling

If someone is suffering from an attack of panic, they may experience many various symptoms, like a pounding heart and chest tightness, hyperventilation, shaking, dizziness and chills. They may also think they are suffering from an attack on their heart, or that they are dying. The attacks typically peak within minutes and then quickly disappear. People who experience them often could be diagnosed with panic disorder.

To determine if you have panic attacks the doctor will conduct a thorough medical history and conduct a physical exam. They will also ask you to identify the symptoms and how often they occur. They will also search for any other health conditions that may cause similar symptoms. For instance, a thyroid issue or heart disease.

The most effective treatment for panic and anxiety attacks is psychotherapy, or talk therapy, in conjunction with a mental health professional. It is advised to seek the help of a psychologist or psychiatrist. They will be able to help you identify your triggers and teach you how to cope with them. They can also prescribe medications like antidepressants to ease the symptoms and prevent the recurrence of symptoms.

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 alter the dosage or switch to a different kind.

A counselor or therapist will assist you in learning to manage your emotions and you might do some cognitive behavioral therapy to tackle negative thoughts and beliefs. It can be a tough process, but it could give you the tools you need to manage your anxiety and avoid anxiety attacks in the future. You can also seek out support from your family members and acquaintances as you learn to manage your symptoms. Many health professionals suggest that spouses and partners participate in the treatment process to provide physical and emotional support. They can assist you in relaxing and calm when anxiety or panic attacks occur.