Treatment For Panic and Anxiety Attacks Treatment for panic and anxiety attacks involves psychotherapy, medications and lifestyle modifications. Doctors can assist patients in managing their symptoms by determining the cause of the attack. They can also prescribe benzodiazepines such as diazepam (Valium) and alprazolam, or beta-blockers like propranolol (Inderal), which slows a racing heartbeat. Psychotherapy is a way to overcome anxiety by talking to the therapy. Psychotherapy A psychiatrist or psychologist is able to identify anxiety and provide counseling. People who suffer from frequent panic attacks consult their primary care doctor who will check for a medical issue that may be underlying. Based on the root of the panic, the PCP might refer the patient to a mental health specialist. The therapist could suggest cognitive behavioral therapy to reduce anxiety. Cognitive therapy for behavioral issues can help someone recognize behaviors and patterns of thinking that lead to an anxiety attack. Catastrophizing is one or believing that the worst is going to occur. This kind of thinking is believed to be a result of chemical imbalances in the amygdala and brain circuits that are involved in processing fear and anxiety. The therapist can help the client challenge these thoughts to reduce the risk of an attack. Another method is to understand how to manage the physical manifestations of panic attacks. This includes sweating and a pounding pulse. The therapist can guide the client to control their breathing, a technique called mindfulness meditation, which promotes relaxation. The therapist can also instruct the client to develop a sleep routine that is effective and stress-reduction strategies. Some therapists use exposure therapy as a way to assist someone overcome avoidance behaviors which fuel anxiety. For someone who suffers from agoraphobia for instance, could be encouraged to face their fears -- like crowds or public transportation -- one by one until they feel more at ease. Anti-anxiety, anti-panic or benzodiazepines can reduce the intensity of panic attacks. They are not effective in treating the underlying causes. In fact, long-term use of these medications can result in addiction and dependence, making it more difficult to stop the cycle of fear. Many therapists do not prescribe medication as part of the treatment for panic disorder. Some providers offer sliding scale fees for those with lower incomes, or free services. If you have insurance, contact your provider to see what coverage they offer. Some therapists offer online sessions, which are beneficial for those who can't afford to visit in-person. Medicines In addition to treatment, doctors frequently suggest medication as a cure for panic attacks. Certain antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications have been proven to reduce the intensity, frequency and duration of symptoms. They help to stabilize levels of chemical messengers, also known as neurotransmitters in your brain. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly used medicines for panic attacks. These are a group of antidepressants which increase the amount of serotonin a natural brain chemical that affects mood in your brain. 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 that includes venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta). Beta blockers, typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure or heart conditions They can also help 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 causes panic attacks. Benzodiazepines are powerful anti-anxiety medicines which can ease anxiety symptoms quickly. They can be addictive, and withdrawal symptoms may occur if you abruptly stop taking them. It is also possible to get into trouble if you combine them alcohol or with other depressants. They may only be suggested for short-term use by health professionals. If you are suffering from frequent anxiety attacks, your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask you questions about your family history, lifestyle and other mental health issues. They will determine if the attacks are caused by a medical condition, such as thyroid diseases and will also look for other causes like traumatic memories from childhood or other stressors, that could be contributing to the symptoms. The most important aspect in dealing with panic attacks is to recognize that they are not harmful and learning to manage them. If you have family members who could help, they can practice relaxation techniques and avoid caffeine and other stimulants which can trigger them. Lifestyle changes While everyone has moments of anxiety or panic attacks, if these feelings become extreme and persistent and cause your life to be significantly impacted, it may be time to seek professional help. Often, psychotherapy and medications are effective treatments for anxiety disorders. Talk therapy is another name for psychotherapy. It describes a wide range of treatment options for psychological disorders. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a typical kind of treatment that teaches you to recognize and alter unhealthy thoughts and emotions that cause panic attacks. By altering your thoughts and behavior, you can reduce or completely eliminate panic attacks. Anti-anxiety medications can be helpful in managing anxiety and pandemonium. These medicines, which are often referred to as tranquilizers, slow down the nervous system and have the effect of sedation that makes you feel calmer. Benzodiazepines like lorazepam and alprazolam, also referred to as Xanax (r) or Ativan (r), are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety. A healthy lifestyle can be beneficial in reducing anxiety symptoms. Regular exercise can reduce stress, release feel-good hormones and improve mood. It's important to avoid alcohol, caffeine and smoking as they can make anxiety symptoms worse. It is also a vital part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Sleeping at least eight hours every night can help ease anxiety symptoms and improve cognitive function. Spending time with family and friends, and participating in social activities can alleviate anxiety. Joining a support group could also be a good opportunity to connect with others who have similar concerns and learn that you're not alone. In addition, a wide variety of CAM (complementary and alternative medicine) practices, like meditation, yoga, and acupuncture, demonstrate promising results in relieving anxiety symptoms. Further clinical trials are required to confirm these results. In the meantime you should moderately exercise most days of the week and eat a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables and lean proteins. Avoid foods that are processed, such as sugar, caffeine and alcohol in order to reduce anxiety. Also, avoid taking natural anxiety treatments unless you have discussed your doctor first. Counseling If someone is suffering from panic attacks it is possible that they experience various symptoms, like a pounding heart and chest tightness shake, hyperventilation chills and dizziness. They may also think they're dying or suffering from an attack on their heart. The attacks usually peak within minutes, and then disappear. People who experience them frequently may be diagnosed with panic disorder. To determine if you are suffering from panic attacks Your doctor will conduct a thorough medical history and conduct physical examination. You will be asked to explain your symptoms as well as the frequency they occur. They will also check for any other health conditions that may cause similar symptoms. For example, a thyroid issue or heart disease. The most effective treatment for panic and anxiety attacks is psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, in conjunction with an expert in mental health. It is recommended to work with a psychiatrist or psychologist. They can assist you in identifying triggers and teach how to manage. They may prescribe antidepressants to help ease symptoms and avoid 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 you're taking doesn't work the way you want, your doctor could alter the dosage or change to a different kind of medication. A counselor or therapist will also help you learn to manage your emotions and you could also engage in cognitive behavioral therapy to address negative thoughts and beliefs. This can be a challenging process, but it could provide you with the tools to manage your anxiety and avoid panic attacks in the future. You can also receive support from your family and your friends as you learn to manage your symptoms. Health professionals are increasingly suggest that spouses and partners participate in the treatment process for physical and emotional support. They can practice relaxation techniques with you and be a calming presence when your anxiety or panic attacks start to flare up.
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