Anyone who’s had a panic attack knows what a scary experience it can be. Some people even mistake one for a heart attack! In this article we’ll share the major symptoms of panic attacks, what triggers them, and some proven treatment options.
Before we begin, here’s the good news… panic attacks respond well to proper treatment!
What are panic attacks?
Panic attacks fall into the category of anxiety disorders, but are more acute and disabling than general anxiety. Noted researcher and expert on anxiety, Dr. Claire Weekes, states that a panic attack is “an anxious thought that acutely disrupts the rhythm of the body…and that can send the body and emotions into a tailspin of anxiety“.
…This tailspin brings about a variety of physical symptoms:
Tell-tale symptoms of a panic attack:
- Cardiovascular- such as increased heartbeat and heart palpitations
- Respiratory- A feeling of suffocation, smothering, tightness of the chest, and irregular breathing
- Vision- Blurred vision, seeing stars
- Digestion- Nausea, constipation
- General- Dry mouth, trembling, numbness and tingling in the fingers and hands, physical exhaustion, tired and drained; excessive sweating, and shakiness
As I mentioned, what makes a panic attack worse is that many of its’ signs mimic those of a heart attack or any variety of illnesses. These symptoms can make the victim fearful for his or her life.
Still, truth is, while panic attacks do put some stress on the body –they don’t permanently harm you in any way.
What causes Panic Attacks?
A panic attack is usually set off by some type of internal or external trigger.
- External triggers include stressful events such as a divorce hearing, a wedding, loss of a loved one, or even something as insignificant as a walk to the store!
- Internal triggers include phobias, negative self-talk, negative beliefs, and putting undue pressure on yourself, to name a few.
Yet, before a panic attack occurs, general anxiety disorder is usually present. Chronic anxiety exhausts the emotions, mind and body. Your adrenal glands are stressed out, cortisol levels are too high and this condition promotes a sensitivity to potential triggers.
Whether a panic attack is caused by an internal or external trigger, there are a number of treatment options available that treat panic attacks and its’ underlying general anxiety.
Treatment options for panic attacks and anxiety:
- Medication: Tranquilizers such as Xanax or Valium, as well as anti-depressants such as Prozac or Zoloft. These are aimed at correcting ‘chemical imbalances’. Even if you don’t take them long-term, they can help in stabilizing your condition while you decide upon further treatment options.
- Therapy: Traditional talk therapy, hypnosis and guided imagery. These therapies are aimed at changing our response to certain inputs, without having to put you through long psychotherapy sessions.
- Relaxation, Spiritual healing, Reiki, Body Talk and BioFeedback: These holistic treatments teach techniques for calming the mind, body and emotions.
- Other Holistic Remedies: These programs usually combine education, visualization, and physical relaxation techniques. They may include Yoga, stretching, walking and other exercise – as well as dietary changes to support chemical balance. These remedies are complementary to the other treatments mentioned above, and are aimed at treating both general anxiety and panic attacks.
With any chronic anxiety disorder, it’s always important to see a professional for proper diagnosis before starting any treatment plan. Then, once the body chemistry is stabilized, the other therapies mentioned here may complement or replace any medication and ensure long-term success.
Whatever treatment options you select, it’s always a good idea to learn as much as you can! Knowledge opens the door for more powerful conversations with practitioners, and puts you in the driver’s seat — when it comes to your emotional and mental health!
As you consider the steps I’ve outlined above, one program might be worth you taking a look at: I was particularly impressed with the Panic Away program, which stands above other eBook programs on the market for two reasons.
First, Panic Away treats both panic attacks and general anxiety — all within one program. Secondly, it also takes a holistic approach to healing the person – integrating techniques for the mind, body and spirit. Yet this comprehensive program is presented in simple steps that are effective and easy to remember! For help treating your Panic Attacks read our Panic Away Review.
Thanks for visiting our site, and all the best in your journey to healing and health!
