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Treatment For Panic and Anxiety Attacks Treatment for panic and anxiety attacks includes psychotherapy, medications and lifestyle adjustments. Doctors can assist patients manage their symptoms by determining the reason behind the attack. They may also prescribe benzodiazepines such as diazepam (Valium) and alprazolam, or beta-blockers, such as propranolol (Inderal), which slows the speed of a heartbeat. Psychotherapy is a method to overcome anxiety by talking to an therapist. Psychotherapy A psychologist or psychiatrist is able to diagnose anxiety and provide counseling. Many people who suffer from frequent panic attacks consult a primary care provider who will look for an underlying medical issue. Depending on the cause of the panic, the PCP might refer the patient to a mental health specialist. The therapist may suggest cognitive behavioral therapy to reduce anxiety. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help a person recognize behaviors and patterns of thinking that contribute to an anxiety attack. Catastrophizing is one and also believing that the worst is going to occur. This type of thinking is believed to be related to chemical imbalances in the amygdala and brain circuits involved in the processing of anxiety and fear. The counselor can assist the client to overcome these thoughts and reduce the risk of an attack. Another technique is to learn how to manage the physical symptoms of a panic attack. This includes sweating and a pounding pulse. The Therapist can guide the patient through controlled breathing, a technique called mindfulness meditation that helps to relax. The therapist can also instruct the client how to develop an effective sleep routine. efficient and stress-reducing strategies. Therapists may use exposure therapy as a way to help people overcome avoidance behaviors which fuel anxiety. Someone suffering from agoraphobia, for example, might be encouraged to confront their fear -- like crowds or public transportation -- one by one until they feel more comfortable. Anti-anxiety, anti-panic, or benzodiazepines can reduce the intensity of panic attacks. They aren't effective in treating the root causes. In fact, long-term use of these medications could lead to dependence and addiction, making it more difficult to break the cycle of fear. 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 are insured and want to inquire with your provider determine what coverage they have available. Some therapists provide online sessions, which can be beneficial for people who cannot afford to attend in person. Medicines Doctors often prescribe medications to treat anxiety attacks, in addition to treatment. Some antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications have been proven effective in decreasing the frequency, intensity and length of symptoms. They help by stabilizing the levels of chemical messengers known as neurotransmitters in your brain. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly used medicines for panic attacks. These antidepressants increase serotonin levels in the brain, which is 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. This is a category of antidepressants, which includes venlafaxine, (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta). Beta blockers, which are usually prescribed to control high blood pressure or heart issues, can also reduce anxiety symptoms, including rapid heart rate sweating, trembling voice, and shaking hands. They are not usually prescribed for panic disorder but could be prescribed if the fear of a certain event causes a panic attack. Benzodiazepines can be used to relieve anxiety symptoms quickly. However, they can be addictive and cause withdrawal if you stop taking them abruptly. 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 from frequent panic attacks, your physician will perform a physical exam and ask 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 disease, and they will search for other factors that could contribute to the symptoms, including trauma from childhood or other stressors. The most important thing to do when treating panic attacks is to realize that they are not harmful. It is also important to know how to manage these symptoms. If you have the support of your loved ones they can help by practicing relaxation techniques and avoiding caffeine and other stimulants that can cause them to happen. Lifestyle changes It is crucial to seek out professional help if you are experiencing extreme anxiety or panic attacks. Psychotherapy and medication are often effective treatments for anxiety disorders. Talk therapy is another term for psychotherapy. It covers a wide range of psychological treatment methods. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a typical type of treatment that teaches you to recognize and change negative thoughts and emotions that trigger panic attacks. You can reduce or eliminate panic by altering your thoughts and behaviors. Anti-anxiety medications can be beneficial in managing anxiety and pandemonium. These medicines, also known as tranquilizers or tranquilizers are sedating and have a slowing effect on the nervous system. This allows you to feel calmer. Benzodiazepines, such as lorazepam or alprazolam, also known as Xanax (r) or Ativan (r), are commonly prescribed anti-anxiety medication. A healthy lifestyle can also help in reducing anxiety symptoms. Regular exercise can help lower stress, release feel-good 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 help ease anxiety symptoms and boost cognitive function.
A variety of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices like yoga meditation and acupuncture show promising results in reducing anxiety symptoms. However, further clinical trials are required to confirm these findings. In the meantime, try to do moderate exercise most days of the week. Also, eat an omnivorous diet of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Avoid foods that contain refined alcohol, caffeine, sugar and, since they can increase anxiety. Avoid taking herbal supplements without first consulting your healthcare provider. Counseling If someone is suffering from panic attacks is experiencing panic attacks, they can experience different symptoms, such as a pounding heart tightness in the chest shake, hyperventilation chills and dizziness. They may also believe that they are dying or having a heartattack. The attacks are usually intense for a few minutes but then fade. People who have them frequently might be diagnosed with panic disorder. To determine if you have panic attacks the doctor will take a complete medical history and conduct a physical exam. You will be asked to describe your symptoms and how frequently they occur. They will also check for other health conditions which can cause similar symptoms. For instance thyroid issues or heart disease. Psychotherapy or talk therapy with a mental health professional is the most effective treatment of panic and anxiety attacks. It is recommended to seek the help of a psychologist or psychiatrist. They can assist you in identifying triggers and show you how to manage. They can also prescribe medications, such as antidepressants, to ease your 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 medications don't work for you, your doctor could modify the dosage or switch to a different type. A counselor or therapist can also help you manage your emotions. You may also opt for cognitive behavioral therapy in order to address unhelpful beliefs and thoughts. This can be a tough process, but you'll get the tools you need to manage your anxiety. You can also get support from your family members and acquaintances as you learn to manage your symptoms. In fact increasing numbers of medical professionals are recommending that spouses or partners participate in on the treatment process to provide both emotional and physical assistance. They can practice relaxation techniques with you and provide an calming presence when anxiety or panic attacks begin to pop up. |
