If you are experiencing the symptoms of panic attacks, you may need to see a doctor. Luckily, there are a number of treatments and prevention strategies available. Learn more about what to do if you think you may be having a panic attack so you can treat it as quickly as possible. Here are some common treatments for panic attacks. Listed below are some of the most effective ones. Learn how to identify these triggers and how to protect yourself in public areas.
Symptoms
An attack of panic can be frightening and overwhelming. The symptoms can occur several times throughout the day or just once. An attack may last for up to 30 minutes. While panic attacks are not dangerous, they can get worse if left untreated. People suffering from this condition should see a doctor as symptoms can mimic other medical conditions. Listed below are some of the most common panic attack symptoms. If you think you are experiencing one of these attacks, contact a doctor or emergency room immediately.
During a panic attack, you might experience chest pain, dizziness, difficulty breathing, palpitations, and a smothering feeling. In many cases, the attacks will subside after about an hour, but if they occur frequently, they should be treated by a mental health professional. If panic attacks persist and worsen, you may have a mental illness or a panic disorder. It is important to seek treatment if you experience panic attacks more frequently than once a month.
Treatments
While there are no magic cures for panic attacks, there are ways to control them. Psychotherapy and medicines can help people manage their panic attacks and eventually stop them. Early treatment can also help prevent other conditions that are related to panic disorder, including substance abuse, depression, and anxiety disorders. In addition to medication, treatments for panic attacks can include relaxation practices, progressive muscle relaxation, and aerobic exercises. The key is to stick to your treatment program and follow your doctor’s recommendations.
A therapy called EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) helps patients process their emotions related to traumatic memories that cause panic attacks. EMDR involves tapping, audio stimulation, and bilateral eye movements. The therapist will guide the patient through reliving anxiety-provoking moments in their life. After completing the therapy, patients will feel more relaxed and less frightened in stressful situations. While EMDR is not a cure for panic attacks, it can help those suffering from them find a more effective treatment.
Prevention
During a panic attack, you will experience intense anxiety, losing control of your body, and being unable to think rationally. Your body releases hormones that signal danger, causing physical symptoms such as shaking, sweating, and shallow breathing. The amount of adrenaline in your body will also increase, leading to palpitations and other symptoms. To prevent panic attacks, it is important to take a few steps to improve your mental and physical health.
To begin the process of prevention, you should identify your triggers. While a panic attack can occur randomly, others may be triggered by a stressful situation. Avoiding stressful situations can be one of the best ways to prevent panic attacks, but it is essential to know how to recognize them. Some panic attacks result from psychological stress, and a fast-paced environment can exacerbate them. To minimize the effects of these triggers, try to close your eyes. This will reduce the amount of stimulus you are exposed to, and make breathing easier.
Public spaces
If you suffer from frequent panic attacks, you may wonder what you can do to avoid having one in public. One solution is to carry a mobile kit with you. Because an attack can be so intense, it can be difficult to move away from the crowd and get to a quiet place. You can also try to find a place where there is no sound or visual stimulation. It might seem difficult at first, but you can overcome your fear if you plan ahead.
An exercise you can do to combat your panic attacks is known as grounding. This technique helps you to stay in the present moment and distracts your mind from the bodily sensations that trigger panic attacks. When experiencing an attack, look around you and look at five things. While you are doing so, feel the sensation of each object against your body. Listen to sounds around you as well. Once you’ve done this, you’ll be more likely to be able to manage the panic attack without seeking help.
Medications
There are several medications available for the treatment of panic attacks. A patient may be suffering from a panic disorder or panic attacks as a result of trauma. Their primary care provider may refer them to a psychiatrist or psychologist who will perform a variety of tests and assessments. A child with panic disorder may be referred to a pediatric psychiatrist for assessment. Both adults and children may benefit from medication. Patients who are experiencing panic attacks should not ignore the symptoms of the disorder or delay seeking medical treatment.
Beta-blockers are used to control physical symptoms. These medications are generally used for short-term relief of panic attacks and are effective for controlling symptoms. Anticonvulsants are medications that help balance neurotransmitters. They are also used to treat epilepsy and are useful for treating panic attacks because they are sedatives. Antidepressants may also be prescribed to treat panic attacks. The duration of these medications depends on the severity of the attack.
Triggers
Knowing your triggers can help you overcome them and make life more comfortable. You can work to avoid situations that trigger an attack or find a different way to deal with them. The best way to handle these situations is to approach them slowly and in moderation. Try to avoid stressful situations when you can or take a break from them when you can’t. It’s important to think about how to deal with each situation as an individual, and try to figure out the best course of action for yourself.
You should be aware of any physical conditions you have. For example, asthma is dangerous because it causes inflammation of the airways. The condition often results in shortness of breath, which is a common panic attack trigger. You should also be aware of any blood sugar levels that are too low because low blood sugar starves the brain of glucose. This can make anxiety symptoms worse. If you’re not aware of your blood sugar levels, keep an eye on them and keep your body hydrated.