Treatment For Panic and Anxiety Attacks

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

They may prescribe benzodiazepines like diazepam (Valium) and alprazolam or beta-blockers, such as propranolol (Inderal) which slows the heart rate. Psychotherapy is a way to overcome anxiety by speaking with an psychotherapist.

Psychotherapy

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

Cognitive behavioral therapy can help people identify the actions and patterns of thinking that contribute to an episode panic. Catastrophizing is one of them or believing that the worst will happen. This type of thinking is thought to be related to chemical imbalances in the amygdala and brain circuitry involved in the processing of anxiety treatment without medicine and fear. The therapist can teach the client to question these thoughts, which could decrease the likelihood of an attack.

Another technique is to learn how to manage the physical symptoms that accompany panic attacks such as a pounding heart and sweating. The therapist can guide the client through controlled breathing, a method known as mindfulness meditation which helps to relax. Additionally the therapist is able to guide the client to develop an effective sleep routine and stress reduction strategies.

Therapy practitioners may employ exposure therapy as a method to help people overcome the avoidance behavior that causes anxiety. For instance, a patient with agoraphobia could be encouraged to face the feared situation -- such as 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 medication, also known as benzodiazepines, can be useful in decreasing the severity of panic attacks. However, they aren't effective in treating the underlying causes of these attacks. In fact, long-term use of these medications could cause dependence and addiction which makes it more difficult to break the cycle of anxiety. Many therapists don't prescribe medication to treat panic disorder.

Some providers offer sliding scale rates for those with lower incomes, or free services. Insurance holders should check with their provider to inquire about what is anxiety disorder treatment coverage is available. Some therapists offer online sessions, which are beneficial for those who can't afford to attend in person.

Medicines

Doctors frequently prescribe medication to treat anxiety attacks, in addition to treatment. Certain antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications have been proven to be effective in reducing the frequency, intensity and duration of symptoms. These medications help by stabilizing the levels of chemical messengers, also known as neurotransmitters within your brain. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly prescribed drugs for panic attacks. These antidepressants boost serotonin levels in the brain, a brain chemical that influences mood. SSRIs are 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 category of antidepressants, which includes venlafaxine, (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta).

Beta blockers are usually prescribed to manage high blood pressure or heart problems. They can also reduce anxiety symptoms like a sweating, rapid heartbeat hands, trembling voices and shaking hands. They aren't usually prescribed for panic disorder but may be prescribed if a feared event causes panic attacks.

Benzodiazepines are fast-acting anti-anxiety medications that relieve anxiety symptoms instantly. However, they can be addictive and cause withdrawal if you stop taking them suddenly. It is also possible to get into trouble if you combine them alcohol or with other depressants. They may only be suggested for short-term use by health care providers.

If you are suffering from frequent panic attacks, your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask questions about your family history, lifestyle and other mental health conditions. They will determine whether your attacks are due to an illness, such as thyroid diseases and will also look for other factors, such as adverse childhood memories or other stressors, which may contribute to the symptoms.

The most important thing you can do when treating panic attacks is to understand that they are not harmful. It is also important to learn how to handle them. If you have family members who can help, they should practice relaxation techniques and avoid caffeine and other stimulants that can trigger them.

Lifestyle changes

Every person experiences moments of feeling anxious or having panic attacks, when these feelings become persistent and intense and result in your life being severely affected, it might be time for professional help. Psychotherapy and medication are often effective treatments for anxiety disorders.

Talk therapy is another name for psychotherapy. It describes a wide range of psychological treatment methods. One of the most popular is cognitive behavioral therapy which teaches you to recognize and change unhealthy emotions and thoughts that cause panic attacks. By altering your behavior and reactions you can lessen or eliminate panic attacks.

Anti-anxiety medication can be useful in managing anxiety and panic. These medications, often referred to as tranquilizers, slow down the nervous system and provide an sedative effect that makes you feel calmer. The most frequently prescribed anti-anxiety medication is benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax(r)) and lorazepam (Ativan(r)).

A healthy lifestyle may also help relieve anxiety symptoms. Regular exercise can help reduce stress, release feel good hormones and boost your mood. Avoiding caffeine, alcohol smoking, and alcohol can aggravate anxiety attack treatment symptoms. A good night's sleep is a crucial aspect of an active life style. Aiming for at least eight hours of sleep every night can help alleviate anxiety symptoms and enhance cognition.

Spending time with friends and family and taking part in social activities can help alleviate anxiety. Joining a community of people who share similar concerns will help you find out that your worries aren't the only ones.

Additionally, a broad variety of CAM (complementary and alternative medicine) practices, like meditation, yoga and acupuncture, demonstrate promising results in reducing anxiety symptoms. However, more clinical trials are required to confirm these findings. In the meantime, try to get moderate exercise most days of the week and eat the diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits and lean proteins as well as whole grains. Avoid foods containing processed sugar, alcohol and caffeine, since they can increase anxiety. Also do not take herbal supplements unless discussing them with your physician first.

Counseling

A panic attack can cause a variety of symptoms. These include an accelerated heart rate and chest tightness, hyperventilation, and shaking. They may also think they are having an attack on their heart, or that they are dying. The attacks usually last for a few minutes then they fade away. People who experience them frequently could be diagnosed with panic disorder.

To determine if you suffer from panic attacks Your doctor will conduct a thorough medical history and conduct a physical exam. You will be asked to explain your symptoms and the frequency they occur. They will also check for other health conditions which could cause similar symptoms. For example thyroid issues or heart disease.

Talk therapy or psychotherapy with a mental healthcare professional is the most effective treatment of anxiety and panic attacks. It is usually recommended that you seek out a psychologist or psychiatrist. They can help you identify your triggers and teach you how to manage them. They might also prescribe medication, such as antidepressants, to help ease the symptoms and prevent 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 treatment edinburgh attacks, but they won't make them completely go away. If the medication you're taking doesn't work your doctor might alter the dosage or change the type of medication.

A therapist or counselor will also help you learn how to manage your emotions, and you could also engage in cognitive behavioral therapy to tackle negative thoughts and beliefs. This can be a difficult process, but it can provide you with the tools to manage your anxiety and avoid anxiety Treatment effectiveness attacks in the future. Your friends and family can 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 provide emotional and physical assistance. They can help you relax and calm down when panic or anxiety attacks occur.