Panic Anxiety Attacks

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Author:
Jamie Clarkson

What are panic attacks and panic disorder?

A panic attack is a sudden, unpleasant and debilitating experience in which the sufferer often feels as if he or she is dying. One very noticeable panic attack symptom is what feels like a rapid heartbeat, as if the heart is going to explode. Panic attack symptoms include:

- fear of dying
- shallow and/or rapid breathing
- sweating, shaking, trembling
- severe anxiety
- fear of a heart attack
- feeling out of control
- hot flashes or chills
- fear of going crazy
- nausea
- visual disturbances
- dizziness or feeling faint
- numbness or tingling of extremeties
- feeling as if the walls are closing in

Recurring panic attacks are a symptom of panic disorder, which affects one in 75 people. The symptoms for panic disorder are the same as for an individual panic attack, except that the sufferer experiences panic attacks on a more regular basis. Panic disorder symptoms include the fear of having another panic attack, a fear that in itself could bring on a panic attack. Panic disorder in turn can lead to "situational avoidance," which means that the sufferers feel compelled to avoid every place or situation in which a previous panic attack has occurred, to the point where they may not even leave their houses. Panic disorder that proceeds to this point of phobia can be very serious and disruptive to a normal life.

What is the cause of a panic attack?

Panic attacks have a variety of causes, some physical, some mental and some emotional. Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to panic attacks, while gender also plays a role, as women are more prone to panic attacks than men. Sometimes hidden allergies or sensitivities to food, drink or other chemical such as a drug or pollutant can trigger a panic attack, while at other times memories or trauma can push the panic button. Alcohol and drug use can be both causes and effects of panic attacks and panic disorder. Some people suffer panic disorder as a side effect of post-traumatic stress disorder that involves some very serious and disturbing experiences, while everyday chores and events, such as having a child or getting married, can also trigger panic attacks. Driving is a fairly common source of debilitating panic attacks.

How can you prevent or stop panic attacks?

There are various forms of medication that can be taken either during an acute panic attack to ease its symptoms or regularly in treating panic disorder. Recurring panic disorder requires a more long-term strategy, as several of these medications are highly addictive and not beneficial to the health over the long run. Many methods have been tried, from meditation and visualization to nutrition and breathing, with varying results. One of the more effective methods was developed by panic expert Joe Barry, author of "Panic Away." This method requires the sufferer to actually "welcome" the panic attack, saying, "Bring it on!" In conjunction with medication, nutrition and other methods and strategies, this technique may be very effective in preventing or stopping a panic attack.

With the proper diagnosis and treatment, you can control, stop, prevent or overcome panic attacks and panic disorder, and lead a normal, happy life.

About the Author :

Jamie Clarkson has been studying and implementing health practices for 30 years. She is also a recovered sufferer of debilitating panic disorder. Learn more about how to deal with panic attacks and panic disorder by visiting http://www.thebesthealthinfo.com/nomorepanicattacks.html


Article Source: www.iSnare.com

A Quick Note From The Publisher... If you like the article above, you may be interested in the following article which is also related to Panic Attacks... Top 6 Ways To Control Panic Attack Symptoms A panic attack is accompanied usually by a feeling of terror and the fear that it might occur again. The good news (especially if you are one of the three million Americans who experienced multiple panic attacks) is that there are ways to control panic attack symptoms. The physical symptoms are similar to a heart attack and are accompanied by psychological symptoms such as the feeling of having lost touch with reality. Even if you can experience strong symptoms, don’t let this put you down. The best way to control your panic attack symptoms is to start preventing them in the first place. The top six ways to control your panic attack symptoms: 1) Antidepressant, which can help you to get rid of panic attacks. I’m not suggesting going for antidepressants as a standard cure; just consult your physician about taking antidepressants and the way can help you. If you are experiencing heavy panic attacks, a quick start cure of this type will let you reduce the impact of the symptoms and will enable you to a longer term strategy. 2) The cognitive-behaviour therapy helps you to control your panic attack symptoms. You can defeat the symptoms of a panic attack when they occur through visualization, breathing and relaxation techniques. 3) Facing directly the fears is probably the best approach. You can eradicate gradually the situations that cause panic by gradually confronting them. To do this the safe you, is necessary to resort to a professional therapist, as doing it the wrong way will expose you to the uncomfortable situation that could trigger the panic attack. 4) Let go your fear and shame of seeing your doctor and finally ask him for some advice. Don’t let your shame stop you. Ask for advice and follow it. 5) Ask advice to someone you know and got out anxiety. ...