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Treatment For Panic and Anxiety Attacks

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

They may also prescribe beta-blockers, like diazepam or propranolol to slow the speed of a pulse. Psychotherapy is a way to help you cope with anxiety by speaking to an therapy.

Psychotherapy

A psychologist or psychiatrist can diagnose anxiety and offer counseling (psychotherapy). People who suffer from panic attacks often visit their primary care physician who will look for any the root of the problem. Based on the root of the panic, the PCP may refer the person to a mental health professional. The therapist could suggest cognitive behavioral therapy in order to decrease anxiety.

Cognitive behavioral therapy can help a person recognize patterns of behavior and thinking that contribute to an anxiety attack. Catastrophizing is one, or believing that the worst will happen. This type of thinking might be a result of chemical imbalances in the amygdala, and the brain circuitry that handles fear and anxiety. The Therapist can help the client confront these thoughts in order to decrease the possibility of an attack.

Another option is to learn how to manage the physical symptoms of panic attacks. This includes sweating and a pulse that is pounding. The therapist can guide the patient in controlled breathing, which is known as mindfulness meditation which helps to relax. In addition the therapist can guide the client to develop an effective sleeping routine and strategies for reducing stress.

Therapy practitioners may employ exposure therapy in order to help someone overcome avoidance behaviors which fuel anxiety. For instance, a patient with agoraphobia could be encouraged to confront the fearful situation -- such as crowds or public transportation -one at one at a time until they feel more comfortable in these settings.

Anti-anxiety, anti-panic, or benzodiazepines can help to reduce the intensity of panic attacks. However, they are not effective in treating the underlying causes of these episodes. In fact, the long-term use of these medications can result in addiction and dependence, making it more difficult to break the cycle of fear. Many therapists do not prescribe medications as a part of treatment for panic disorder.

Behavioral therapy can be expensive however some providers offer sliding scale fees or free services for people with low incomes. If you are insured and want to inquire with your provider find out what coverage they provide. Some therapists offer online sessions that could be beneficial to those who are unable to attend in person.

Medicines

In addition to therapy, doctors often prescribe medication for panic attacks. Some antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs have been proven to be effective in reducing the intensity, frequency and duration of symptoms. These medications help to stabilize levels of chemical messengers, also known as neurotransmitters, in your brain. The most popular medications used to treat anxiety attacks are selective serotonin inhibits (SSRIs). I Am Psychiatry increase serotonin levels in the brain, which is a chemical that affects mood. The SSRIs include sertraline (Zoloft) and Escitalopram (Lexapro) 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 treat high blood pressure or heart problems, can also reduce anxiety symptoms, including rapid heart rate, sweating, trembling voice and shaking hands. Health care professionals don't typically prescribe them for panic disorder, but they might be prescribed in the event that a stressful event triggers panic attacks.

Benzodiazepines are fast-acting anti-anxiety medications which can ease anxiety symptoms quickly. However, they are addictive and can cause withdrawal when you stop taking them suddenly. 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.

Your doctor will ask questions regarding your mental health as well as your family history and your lifestyle in the event that you have recurring attacks. They will determine if the attacks are due to an illness, like thyroid disorders and also look for other factors like traumatic childhood memories or other stressors, which could be contributing to the symptoms.

The most important thing you can do in treating panic attacks is to understand that they are not harmful. You should also learn how to deal with them. If you have loved ones who can help, they should apply relaxation techniques and stay clear of caffeine and other stimulants that could trigger them.

Lifestyle changes

Everyone experiences moments of feeling anxious or having panic attacks, when these feelings become extreme and persistent and cause your life to be severely affected, it might be time to seek out professional assistance. In most cases, psychotherapy and medications are effective treatments for anxiety disorders.

Talk therapy is another name for psychotherapy. It is a broad variety of psychotherapy methods. One of the most popular is cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches you how to recognize and modify unhealthy thoughts and emotions that cause panic attacks. You can reduce or eliminate panic by altering your reactions and behavior.

Anti-anxiety medication can be helpful in reducing anxiety and panic. These medications, often referred to as tranquilizers, slow down the nervous system and produce a sedating effect that helps you feel more calm. Benzodiazepines, such as lorazepam or alprazolam, also referred to as Xanax (r) or Ativan (r), are commonly prescribed anti-anxiety medication.

A healthy lifestyle can also be beneficial in relieving anxiety symptoms. Regular exercise can help reduce stress, release happy hormones and boost your mood. It's important to avoid smoking, drinking and caffeine since they can make your anxiety symptoms worse. Sleeping enough is another key element to maintaining an active lifestyle. Sleeping at least eight hours every night can help ease anxiety symptoms and boost cognitive function.

Participating in social activities and spending time with family and friends can help to reduce your anxiety. Joining a support group can be a great way to meet other people who have similar concerns and learn that you're not the only one.

A variety of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices, such as yoga meditation and acupuncture have shown promising results for improving anxiety symptoms. However, further clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings. In the meantime, try to do moderate exercise on most days of the week. Also, eat an omnivorous diet of fruits, vegetables and lean proteins as well as whole grains. Avoid foods that contain refined alcohol, caffeine, sugar and in order to reduce anxiety. Avoid taking herbal supplements without first consulting your healthcare provider.

Counseling

A panic attack can cause many symptoms. This includes the heart racing chest tightness, hyperventilation, and shaking. They may also think they are experiencing an attack on their heart or that they are dying. The attacks usually peak within minutes and then fade away. People who experience them frequently may be diagnosed with panic disorder.

To determine if you suffer from panic attacks the doctor will take a detailed medical history and conduct a physical exam. You will be asked to explain your symptoms and how frequently they occur. They will also look for signs of other health conditions that could cause similar symptoms, like an issue with thyroid or heart disease.

The most effective treatment for panic and anxiety attacks is psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, under the supervision of an expert in mental health. It is generally recommended that you work with a psychiatrist or psychologist. They can assist you in identifying triggers and help you learn to cope. They may also prescribe medication, such as antidepressants, to ease your symptoms and stop 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 medication you're taking doesn't work, your doctor may change the dosage or change the type of medication.





A counselor or therapist can also help you manage your emotions. You might also do cognitive behavioral therapy in order to address unhelpful beliefs and thoughts. This can be a difficult process, but you will gain the tools to manage your anxiety. Family and friends can be a source of support as you learn how to manage your symptoms. Health professionals are increasingly suggest that spouses and partners participate in the treatment process for emotional and physical support. They can learn relaxation techniques with you and provide an calming presence when panic or anxiety attacks flare up.