Panic Attacks

Understanding Panic Attacks

Breathe. Breathe. Breathe. You are going to be ok; nothing is really wrong but that horrible out-of-control feeling suddenly overwhelms you and you feel as though you are going to fall apart, embarrass yourself, or run from the room screaming. That's a panic attack.

When we are stressed to the max, we don't breathe deeply enough and, therefore, the body doesn't get enough oxygen. Partner the oxygen deprivation with overwhelming panic and you have a person who wonders if she is experiencing a nervous breakdown. Knowing what causes a panic attack, how to calm yourself, and how to relax with deep breathing can help when the helpless, hopeless feeling begins.

Panic attacks are part of a disorder that many people experience. While more women than men experience panic attacks as part of a panic disorder, men are certainly not exempt from this condition. Usually, panic attacks begin in the late teens or early adult years and many continue indefinitely if left untreated.

There are many symptoms and effects of panic attacks, and they include: elevated pulse rate, difficulty breathing, nausea and stomach cramps, a sense of extreme fear, trembling or shaking, profuse sweating, dizziness, changes in body temperature, tingling in hands and feet, and a general feeling of losing control. A person experiencing a panic attack may think they are going to die. Panic attacks send a number of people to the emergency room each and every day, people who think that they're suffering from a serious medical condition. While panic attacks are a serious problem, they're not a life threatening event.

Some other traits of panic attacks are that they come and go without rhyme or reason. They can strike unexpectedly and last for several minutes before dissipating. Panic attacks can occur at intervals throughout the day, however there's usually no discernible pattern. People that suffer from these uncomfortable episodes may begin to feel trapped by their disorder, afraid to go anywhere or do anything due to the possibility of an unexpected attack.

There are different reasons why people experience panic attacks. Sometimes, they're caused by a traumatic life event or extended period of extreme stress. Other times, they're caused by a problem within the body rather than an external factor. Then there's the combination of the two.

Only your doctor can diagnose panic attacks, so if you think you're experiencing them, make an appointment right away. Your medical doctor may be able to treat the condition, or he or she may refer you to a psychiatrist for further treatment. Treatment for panic attacks might include a combination of different techniques. Cognitive behavior therapy is one method that many people have found success with. You may also be taught relaxation techniques to use before or during your panic attacks. If therapy alone doesn't take care of the problem, then you might be prescribed medication. Common medications for panic attacks include antidepressants as well as anxiety medicines like Valium or Xanax. Your doctor can tell you more about the types of medication used and whether or not you may benefit.

Panic attacks don't have to ruin your life. There are lots of places where you can obtain help for this problem. Not only should you see your doctor, it may help to join a support group for people who suffer from panic attacks and panic disorder.