Treatment For Panic and Anxiety Attacks

Psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes are all a part of the treatment plan for anxiety and panic disorders. Doctors can help their patients manage their symptoms by determining the root reason for the attack.

They can prescribe benzodiazepines, such as diazepam (Valium) and alprazolam, or beta-blockers like propranolol (Inderal) which slows the heart rate. Psychotherapy involves talking with the therapist in order to learn how to deal with anxiety.

Psychotherapy

A psychiatrist or psychologist may diagnose anxiety and offer counseling (psychotherapy). People who suffer from panic attacks often visit their primary physician who will look for any an underlying medical issue. Based on the reason for the panic attack, the PCP may refer the patient to a mental health professional. The therapist may recommend cognitive behavioral therapy to reduce anxiety.

Cognitive therapy for behavioral issues can help people recognize behaviors and patterns of thinking that contribute to an panic attack. Catastrophizing is one and also thinking that the worst could happen. This type of thinking is thought to be related to chemical imbalances in the amygdala, and brain circuits that are involved in processing anxiety and fear. The counselor can assist the client to confront these thoughts in order to decrease the possibility of an attack.

Another option is to learn how to manage the physical symptoms that come with a panic attack like sweating and a pounding heart. The Therapist can guide the patient in controlled breathing, a technique known as mindfulness meditation which helps to relax. The therapist can also teach the client how to create a routine for sleeping that is effective and stress-reduction strategies.

Therapists may also employ exposure therapy to help people overcome the avoiding behaviors that cause anxiety. For instance, a person with agoraphobia could be encouraged to confront the fearful situation like crowds or public transportation -one at each time until they feel more comfortable in the environment.

Anti-anxiety, anti-panic, or benzodiazepines can help to reduce the severity of panic attacks. However, they aren't effective in treating the underlying causes of these episodes. Long-term use of these drugs can cause dependence and addiction. This makes it harder to break the cycle. Many therapists do not prescribe medications as a part of treatment for panic disorder.

Some providers offer sliding scale rates for those with low incomes, or free services. If you have insurance, contact their provider to inquire about what coverage is available. Some therapists offer online sessions, which are beneficial for people who cannot afford in-person visits.

Medicines

In addition to treatment, doctors frequently prescribe medication for panic attacks. Certain antidepressants as well as anti-anxiety medicines have been proven to be effective in reducing the intensity, frequency and duration of symptoms. They are effective in stabilizing the levels of chemical messengers, referred to as neurotransmitters in your brain. The most popular medications used to combat panic attacks are selective serotonin reuptake reducers (SSRIs). These are a group of antidepressants that boost the amount of serotonin, a natural brain chemical that influences mood, in your brain. 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. They are a class of antidepressants which includes venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta).

Beta blockers, typically prescribed to control high blood pressure or heart conditions they can also ease anxiety symptoms, such as a rapid heart rate, sweating, trembling voice, and shaking hands. They aren't usually prescribed for panic disorder but could be prescribed if an event that is feared causes a panic attack.

Benzodiazepines are anti-anxiety drugs that work quickly which can ease anxiety symptoms immediately. They can be addictive and withdrawal symptoms may occur if you abruptly stop taking them. They can also be dangerous if you combine them with alcohol or other depressants. They may only be suggested for short-term usage by health professionals.

If you suffer with frequent panic attacks, your physician will conduct a physical exam and ask you questions about your family history, lifestyle, and other mental health issues. They will determine if your attacks are caused by a medical issue, such as thyroid disease, and will also look for other factors meds that treat depression and anxiety could be contributing to the symptoms, including trauma from childhood or other stressors.

The most important factor in managing panic attacks is understanding that they aren't harmful and learning to deal with them. If you have the support of family members, they can also help by practicing relaxation techniques and staying away from caffeine and other stimulants that may trigger them.

Lifestyle changes

Every person experiences moments of anxiety or panic attacks, if these feelings become extreme and persistent and cause your life to be affected, it could be time to seek out professional assistance. Psychotherapy and medication are often effective treatments for anxiety disorders.

Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is a term that describes a variety of psychological treatment methods. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a common kind of treatment that helps how to recognize and modify unhealthy thoughts and emotions that cause panic attacks. By changing your reactions and behaviors you can lessen or completely eliminate panic attacks.

Anti-anxiety medication can also be beneficial in managing anxiety and pandemonium. These medicines, which are sometimes called tranquilizers, reduce the activity of the nervous system and have the effect of sedation that makes you feel more calm. Commonly prescribed anti-anxiety medications include benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax(r)) and lorazepam (Ativan(r)).

A healthy lifestyle can also be beneficial in reducing anxiety symptoms. Regular exercise can help reduce anxiety, release positive hormones, and boost your mood. Avoiding caffeine, alcohol smoking, and alcohol can aggravate anxiety symptoms. Sleeping enough is another key part of maintaining an appropriate life style. Getting at least eight hours of sleep every night can reduce anxiety symptoms and improve cognition.

Engaging in social activities and spending time with friends and family can help to ease anxiety. Joining a group of people who have similar issues will help you find out that your concerns aren't the only ones.

A variety of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices, such as yoga meditation and acupuncture have shown promising results for reducing anxiety symptoms. However, more clinical trials are required to confirm these findings. In the meantime, try to do moderate exercise most days of the week and eat an omnivorous diet of vegetables, fruits, lean proteins and whole grains. Avoid foods that contain refined sugar, caffeine and alcohol in order to reduce anxiety. Also, do not take herbal supplements unless discussing them with your healthcare provider first.

Counseling

A panic attack may trigger various symptoms. They include a racing heart chest tightness, hyperventilation, and shaking. They may also believe that they're dying or suffering from a heartattack. The attacks typically peak within minutes, and then disappear. People who suffer from them often could be diagnosed with panic disorder.

To determine if you suffer from panic attacks, your doctor will conduct a thorough medical history and perform an examination. They will also ask you to explain the symptoms and when they occur. They will also check for any other health issues that may cause similar symptoms. For instance thyroid issues or heart disease.

Psychotherapy or talk therapy with a mental healthcare professional is the most effective method of treatment anxiety without medication of anxiety and panic attacks. It is recommended to seek out a psychologist or psychiatrist. They can assist you in identifying triggers and help you learn to cope. They might prescribe antidepressants in order to reduce symptoms and prevent 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 doesn't work for you, your doctor could modify the dosage or switch to another type.

A therapist or counselor can assist you in learning how to manage your emotions, and you could also engage in cognitive behavioral therapy to tackle unhelpful thoughts and beliefs. It can be a challenging process, but you'll gain the tools to manage your anxiety. You can also seek out support from your family members and friends as you learn how to manage your symptoms. Health professionals are increasingly suggest that spouses and partners join in the treatment process to provide emotional and physical support. They can do relaxation exercises together and act as an calming presence when anxiety or panic attacks start to flare up.