A panic attack is a sudden feeling of fear and anxiety. These attacks are triggered by different factors which include the surrounding environment and thoughts, even if we are not consciously aware of those thoughts. The good news is that panic attacks can be treated and you can get back to living a normal life. There are various ways through which panic attacks can be treated. The sooner you seek help, the better.
Symptoms of panic attacks
Panic attacks occur with no prior warning and can occur when you are relaxed or asleep. This might be a onetime occurrence for some people. Others unfortunately suffer repeated episodes of panic attacks. The sign and symptoms of panic attacks develop gradually and in most cases they reach their peak within 10 minutes. However, a panic attack cannot last for more than an hour. Some signs and symptoms of a full blown panic attack include:
- Hyperventilation or shortage of breathe
- A racing heart or heart palpitations
- Chest pains
- Trembling or shaking
- Feeling of choking
- Feeling detached from the environment
- Feeling faint, dizzy or light headed
- Tingling sensations or numbness
- Fear of losing control, dying or going crazy
- Hot or cold flushes
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important that you see your doctor to ensure there is not medical reason for your symptoms.
5 ways of dealing with panic attacks
Panic attacks or disorders can be successfully treated by adopting self-care tips and by seeking the help of a professional for therapy. Here are ways through which panic attacks can be treated.
- Learn and understand about panic
Understanding panic attacks and the reasons why they happen will go a long way in relieving the distress that comes with these attacks. You will learn that these attacks are normal body response and that you are not going crazy.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine and smoking
Caffeine or alcohol intake and smoking can trigger panic attacks on people who are prone to these attacks. Avoid alcohol, smoking and substances that contain caffeine. In addition, avoid using medication that contains stimulants that may provoke panic attacks.
- Control your breathing
Hyperventilation causes sensations such as tightness of the chest and light headedness. By learning how to control breathing, you will be able to develop a skill that will enable you cope with the situation thus avoiding panic attacks. In addition, learning how to control your breathing will enable you avoid creating sensations that cause panic.
- Adopt relaxation techniques
Relaxation techniques such as hypnosis, meditation, progressive muscle relaxation and yoga go a long way in enhancing the body’s ability to respond quickly to panic attacks. These techniques not only make you feel relaxed but also provoke feelings of joy. Therefore, be sure to practice these techniques regularly.
When to seek professional help
Panic attacks should not be allowed to escalate into panic disorders tamiflu generic. This might be the cause of other serious ailments such as depression. Be sure to apply the self-help techniques.
That said, do not let occurrences like panic attacks derail you from progressing in your life! I have worked with a number of people that with my help have completely banished panic attacks from their lives.
Contact me for a FREE Initial Consultation to see how it is that I can help you.