A An Overview Of Panic Anxiety Disorder From Beginning To End

Treatment For Panic Attacks The first step to get treatment for panic attacks is to visit a medical professional. The doctor will ask you questions regarding your symptoms, and perform a physical examination. They will make sure no other issues are causing them. People suffering from panic disorder might feel that their feelings aren't fully understood. They might be lonely from other people. Symptoms A panic attack is a sudden, typically short-lived episode of intense anxiety and fear that has no specific cause. The symptoms can include chest pain or discomfort, palpitations (accelerated heart rate), breathing difficulties and feelings of choking. numbness or tingling, sweating and chills, and the feeling that you are losing control. You may feel dizzy or unsteady, and you may have difficulty concentrating. People who suffer from this disorder tend to feel anxious or tense during attacks and worry about when the next attack will occur. They may avoid situations or places they believe triggered a panic attack. This can result in a disorder called agoraphobia where you are scared to be in areas that are open or situations that are difficult to get out from. If you know a loved one with this disorder, assist them recognize an attack and try to calm them down while the symptoms are occurring. Encourage them to concentrate on something enjoyable such as counting to ten or naming things around them. You can also introduce the technique of grounding, that involves touching something relaxing like a handkerchief or blanket, or smelling a particular scent, like mint. If you suspect you have a panic disorder, it is best to seek the advice of a medical professional. They will perform an examination to confirm that your symptoms are not caused by a medical issue. If they conclude that there is a medical explanation for your symptoms, they'll refer you to a mental health specialist such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. It is also advisable to talk with your physician about other mental health problems like depression or post-traumatic stress disorder. If you suffer from PTSD, you might be suffering from depression, nightmares flashbacks and feelings of separation or disconnect. You might have difficulty sleeping or have difficulty being able to concentrate on relationships or work. In some cases, you might even have suicidal thoughts. You can find information and help from many sources including your GP, Kids Helpline, Mensline Australia or Lifeline. Some people may find that their symptoms are worse as they age. Some people suffer from panic attacks that are frequent and intense throughout their lives. Diagnosis People suffering from panic disorder are prone to recurring or sudden periods of intense anxiety that feel like they're having an attack of the heart or some other serious medical problem. They worry about having more attacks and avoid situations in which they might occur. The disorder can cause serious problems, including in work and relationships. The symptoms can also affect sleep. There are two main treatment options available: psychotherapy and medication. The first step in diagnosis is speaking with the doctor or mental health professional. The patient must explain their symptoms, including how often they are present. The person will also be asked about their family history and if they have any other mental issues. The doctor may do tests to rule out a physical reason for their symptoms, for example blood work or imaging. These tests are typically normal. If the doctor suspects panic disorder they will ask the patient to identify their symptoms and the time they occur. The doctor will also conduct a psychological evaluation. The doctor will ask about any other mental health conditions the patient has had and their effects on the patient. The doctor will also want to know about the patient's current stress level and daily routine. A psychiatrist, a specialist in mental illness is able to diagnose and prescribe medication for panic disorder. Psychologists, therapists, and social workers are also health care providers that can provide treatment. Talk generalized anxiety disorder (or psychotherapy) is a therapy that involves talking about your thoughts and feelings with a psychologist or counselor. The aim is to alter negative thoughts and behaviors that contribute to panic attacks. CBT is a kind of psychotherapy that is supported by research is the most widely used treatment for panic disorder. CBT teaches new ways of thinking and behavior so you can overcome your anxiety. Treatment for panic disorder could consist of medication either on its own or in combination psychotherapy. Antidepressants, anti anxiety drugs and benzodiazepines are the most commonly prescribed medicines for this condition. Finding the right medication may take some time. It's important to tell your doctor what you feel. Many people will try several medications before they find the one that is right for them. Treatment Psychotherapy (also called talk therapy) and medication are two options for treating panic disorder. Talk therapy can help you learn to control your fears and decrease the number of panic attacks you have. The use of medication can reduce the severity of symptoms and may even prevent you from needing to take additional medications in the future. Some people are able to determine that using a combination of both treatments works best. A doctor will begin by conducting an examination of your body to determine whether your symptoms are due to a medical issue. If not then your doctor will likely refer you to a mental healthcare professional, such psychiatrists or psychologists. The majority of people who suffer from panic attacks will get better over time, particularly if they seek treatment. However, the rate of improvement varies from person to person. Some people experience a few months of symptoms followed by a long period without any symptoms. Some suffer from persistent symptoms that never completely go away. Your treatment plan is likely to begin with cognitive behavior therapy. This kind of talk therapy will help you change negative thoughts that cause anxiety and panic. You'll also learn how to manage stress and practice relaxation techniques. You'll need to practice daily to benefit from the benefits. In certain instances, your doctor might also prescribe medication. It could be an antidepressant, such as fluoxetine (Prozac) or an sedative. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for instance, has endorsed the benzodiazepines clonazepam and alprazolam to treat panic disorder. In a number of double-blind studies tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine and clomipramine have been proven to be effective. Herbal products and supplements aren't subject to the supervision of the FDA in the same way that medications are, and therefore might have unknown risks or potentially dangerous interactions with other medications. Although these supplements could be beneficial to some people, your health care provider might not recommend them. It is crucial to have your family and friends help you and take care of your health. Make sure you eat a healthy diet and get enough rest. Be active and spend time with friends who understand what you're going through. Prevention If you or someone you know suffers from an anxiety attack or panic attack, you should seek out a healthcare professional as soon as possible. This may include your GP, an expert in mental health (such as a psychiatrist or psychologist) or an allied healthcare professional like an occupational therapist or physiotherapist. A panic attack is an intense, sudden sensation of fear or anxiety. It can happen at any time and without a reason. They typically last between 5 and 20 minutes but can last much longer. You may feel exhausted or feel as if your heart is racing. You might also experience chest pains or a sense of imminent danger. There are other physical symptoms, such as a pounding heart or a racing heart (heart palpitations) or a feeling that you cannot breathe (shortness or breath). People suffering from panic disorders usually spend a lot of time worrying about whether they will have more attacks, or what these attacks could be referring to. This can lead them to avoid situations that might cause an attack. This could have a huge impact on their lives and hinder them from doing what they would like to do. Anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder can run in families. If panic anxiety disorder or sibling suffers from the condition there is a 40% chance to develop it. Some medical conditions, such as cardiac arrhythmias, asthma and irritable bowel syndrome are also linked with panic disorder. A few of the ways you can do to stop panic attacks include: Engaging in deep breathing exercises to ease your body. Use anti-anxiety medication however, only under the supervision of your physician and for a limited time. Psychotherapists can help you learn stress management techniques and work on ways to handle your anxiety. Avoiding sugar, caffeine and other stimulants that could cause anxiety. A good night's sleep will allow you stay alert and focused. Encourage your family member or friend who is suffering with frequent panic attacks to seek help. Be aware that these attacks are not dangerous and will improve with treatment.