Treatments For Panic Attacks: Understanding Your Options
Before searching for different treatments for panic attacks, check if any of followings sound familiar: One minute you are fine and the next minute you are breathing heavily coupled with an extremely pounding heart, sweating excessively, suffocating and feeling just about to die. You may even feel nauseated or dizzy and flushed. If you have no known medical reason to experience these symptoms all at once, then it is likely that you are having a panic attack.
The attack can happen without much warning and due cause. The undue fear brought on by an attack is quite debilitating, however, it is normal for a person to have one or two episodes in a lifetime. If the attacks become frequent it is imperative to seek medical help as this could be a symptom of an anxiety syndrome known as panic disorder. There is no reason to worry though as there are various treatments at your disposal.
There are two basic treatments for panic attacks: medications and psychotherapy. Once classified as “stress” or “nerves”, panic attacks are now considered as legitimate medical conditions.
Psychotherapy
Talk or counseling therapy is one way for you to understand about your condition and how to effectively cope with it. Normally, cognitive behavioral therapy is an effective type of talk therapy for individuals afflicted with this condition. Cognitive behavioral therapy or CBT teaches you to change your thinking pattern so you can eliminate situations and thoughts that could initiate an episode. An exposure therapy might also be successful in confronting your fears in a controlled situation. CBT also teaches you how to talk yourself out of an attack by putting breathing techniques and relaxation methods into use. It is best to adhere to your therapist’s recommended sessions.
Medications
When considering treatments for panic attacks, cognitive behavioral therapies are highly effective. In cases when the attacks are sever and frequent it might be best to consider taking medications on the onset to help control the panic attacks. There are various medications available as treatment options: Antidepressants are effective in controlling panic attacks. Top in the list are antidepressants know as SSRIs which are called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. SNRIs are antidepressants known as serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. Antidepressants called TCAs (tricyclic) and MAOIs (Monoamine oxidase inhibitors) are not recommended because of their adverse and sometimes life threatening effects. On the other hand Benzodiazepines are mild sedatives that may be addictive if used for a long time.
Aside from psychotherapy and medications there are some very effective, short term, treatments for panic attacks.
It is always a good idea to take stock of your lifestyle and do your best to live a healthy and balanced life. Maintain a regular exercise regime to lessen signs of panic attacks. Get enough sleep to ease stress and related anxiety. Do some meditation and activities that can calm you. A calmer you would relieve tension and most likely generate a sense of serenity and well-being. Avoid stimulants like caffeine and coffee that could induce panic attacks.
It is always best to talk to a qualified doctor to find out what the best treatments for panic attacks are and what options will suit you best. And, of course, never take any medications without first consulting your physician.
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