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Treatment For Panic and Anxiety Attacks

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

They may also prescribe beta-blockers, like diazepam or propranolol to slow the speed of a pulse. Psychotherapy involves talking with a therapist to learn how to deal with anxiety symptoms and treatment.

Psychotherapy

A psychiatrist or psychologist can diagnose anxiety and offer counseling (psychotherapy). People who suffer from panic attacks will visit their primary care provider who will check for any underlying medical issues. Based on the reason for the panic, the PCP might refer the patient to a mental health specialist. The therapist might suggest cognitive behavioral therapy to decrease anxiety.

Cognitive behavioral therapy can help a person identify the behaviors and patterns of thinking that can trigger an episode of anxiety. These include catastrophizing, or believing the worst is coming. This type of thinking is thought to be linked to chemical imbalances in the amygdala, and brain circuits that are involved in the processing of severe anxiety treatment and fear. The therapist may teach the client to challenge these thoughts, which could reduce the chance of having an attack.

Another technique is to learn how to manage the physical symptoms that come with panic attacks, such as a pounding heart and sweating. The therapist can guide the patient in controlled breathing, a method known as mindfulness meditation which helps to relax. Therapists can also teach the client how to create a routine for sleeping that is efficient and effective in reducing stress.

Some therapists also use exposure therapy to help someone overcome the avoidance behavior that can cause anxiety. For instance, a person with agoraphobia could be encouraged to confront the feared scenario like crowds or public transportation -- one at one at a time until they feel more comfortable in the environment.

The use of medications such as anti-anxiety and anti-panic medications, or benzodiazepines, can be useful in reducing the intensity of panic attacks. They aren't effective in treating the underlying causes. In the long run, these drugs can cause dependence and addiction. This makes it difficult to break the cycle. Many therapists don't prescribe medication to treat panic disorder.

Behavioral therapy can be expensive However, some providers offer sliding scale fees or free services for those with low incomes. If you are insured, contact your provider to determine what coverage they have available. Some therapists provide online sessions, which can be helpful for those who are unable to go in person.

Medications

In addition to therapy, doctors often prescribe medication for panic attacks. Certain antidepressants and anti-anxiety medicines have been proven to be effective in decreasing the frequency, intensity and length of symptoms. These medications work by stabilizing levels of chemical messengers, referred to 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, a brain 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 class of antidepressants which includes venlafaxine, (Effexor), and duloxetine (Cymbalta).

Beta blockers, which are usually prescribed to manage high blood pressure or heart issues they can also ease anxiety symptoms, such as a rapid heart rate sweating, trembling voice and shaking hands. Doctors don't usually prescribe them for panic disorder, however they could be prescribed if a feared situation triggers a panic attack.

Benzodiazepines are fast-acting anti-anxiety medications which can ease anxiety symptoms quickly. They can be addictive, and withdrawal symptoms may occur if you suddenly stop taking them. They can also be dangerous when combined with alcohol or other depressants. They may only be suggested for short-term use by health care professionals.

Your doctor will ask you questions about your mental health as well as your family history and your lifestyle when you are suffering from frequent attacks. They will determine if your attacks are caused by a medical condition, like thyroid disorders and be looking for other contributing factors like traumatic memories from childhood or other stressors, which can contribute to the symptoms.

The most important thing to do when dealing with panic attacks is to recognize that they aren't harmful. It is also important to know how to handle these attacks. If you have the support of your loved ones, they can also help by practicing relaxation techniques and staying away from caffeine and other stimulants that can trigger them.

Lifestyle changes

Everyone experiences moments of anxiety or panic attacks, if these feelings become extreme and persistent and result in your life being significantly impacted, it may be time for professional help. Psychotherapy and medication are typically effective treatments for anxiety disorders.

Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy is a term used to describes a variety of psychological treatment methods. One common type is cognitive behavioral therapy which teaches you to recognize and change unhealthy thoughts and emotions that cause panic attacks. By altering your thoughts and behavior, you can reduce or eliminate panic attacks.

Anti-anxiety medications can help in reducing anxiety and pandemonium. These medicines, which are often referred to as tranquilizers, reduce the activity of the nervous system and produce the effect of sedation that makes you feel calmer. Benzodiazepines such as lorazepam and alprazolam, also known as Xanax (r) or Ativan (r) are frequently prescribed anti-anxiety medication.

A healthy lifestyle can also help in reducing anxiety symptoms. Regular exercise can ease stress, release happy hormones, and boost your mood. Avoiding alcohol, caffeine smoking, and alcohol can aggravate anxiety symptoms. Sleeping enough is another key part of maintaining an active lifestyle. At minimum eight hours of rest every night can alleviate anxiety symptoms and enhance cognition.

Participating in social activities and spending time with family and friends can help to reduce your anxiety. Participating in a support group can be a great opportunity to connect with others who have similar concerns and discover that you're not alone.

A variety of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices such as yoga meditation and acupuncture have shown promising results in reducing anxiety symptoms. However, more clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings. In the interim you can moderately exercise on most days of the weeks and eat healthy meals that are packed with fruits, vegetables and lean proteins. Avoid foods that contain refined sugar, caffeine and alcohol as they can cause anxiety. Avoid taking herbal supplements without first speaking with your doctor.

Counseling

A panic attack may trigger a variety of symptoms. These include a racing heart chest tightness, hyperventilation and shaking. They may also believe that they're dying or suffering from an attack on their heart. The attacks usually peak within minutes and then quickly disappear. People who suffer from them often might be diagnosed with panic disorder.

Your doctor will ask you to provide a detailed medical history, and perform an examination to determine whether panic attacks are present. You will be asked to explain your symptoms as well as the frequency they occur. They will also look for signs of other health conditions that could cause similar symptoms, for example, a thyroid problem or heart disease.

The most effective treatment for panic and anxiety attacks is psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, under the supervision of a mental health professional. It is recommended that you work with a psychiatrist or psychologist. They can help you identify your triggers and help you learn how to deal with them. They may prescribe antidepressants to ease symptoms and prevent repeat episodes.

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, your doctor may change the dosage or change to a different kind of medication.

A therapist or counselor could also help you manage your emotions. You may also opt for cognitive behavioral therapy to deal with negative beliefs and thoughts. This can be a difficult process, but it could provide you with the tools to manage your anxiety and avoid panic attacks in the near future. Family and friends can also be a source of support as you learn how to manage your symptoms. In fact, more and more medical professionals are recommending that spouses and partners join in the treatment process to offer emotional and physical support. They can assist you in relaxing and calm when panic or anxiety attacks occur.