Panic Attack

Diagnosis of Panic Attacks

Some serious health conditions, such as respiratory problems, heart disease, and thyroid disease, may also cause symptoms similar to panic attacks. The doctor may run some tests to rule out a physical problem. Once it is clear that there is no physical cause of symptoms, the doctor may make a diagnosis based on symptoms experienced by the patient and risk factors.

Treatment of Panic Attacks

Panic attacks can be treated with Psychotherapy, prescription medications, and/or a combination of these options is effective at completely stopping panic attacks. The exact period of treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the response to treatment.

The most common treatment options include the following:

Psychotherapy: A licensed counselor or psychologist may recommend Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a type of psychotherapy, or talk therapy. During this treatment, the patient must discuss their thoughts and emotions with a mental health professional. They help identify panic attack triggers and help patients alter their thoughts, behaviors, and reactions. The patients respond differently to triggers, and attacks can gradually decrease and eventually stop.

Antidepressants: A doctor treating you for panic attacks may prescribe certain antidepressant medications to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks. Some of the most commonly prescribed antidepressants include:

• Serotonin selective reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
• Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
• Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
• SSRIs include fluoxetine (Prozac®) and paroxetine (Paxil®)
• SNRIs include duloxetine (Cymbalta®) and venlafaxine (Effexor®)
• TCAs include amitriptyline (Elavil®) and doxepin (Sinequan®)

Anti-Anxiety Medications: Doctors may prescribe anti-anxiety medications such as lorazepam (Ativan®) and alprazolam (Xanax®) to treat and prevent panic attacks. These medicines help with anxiety. However, these are also known to have risks of addiction or dependence. It is important to take these medications only under a doctor's prescription.

Recovery

Recovery from a panic attack can expedite by trying one of the following techniques:

Breathing Techniques: Patients tend to hyperventilate, which obstructs oxygen inflow to the body. Slow and deep breathing from the belly and exhaling slowly can help restore natural airflow into the lungs. Longer exhalations may activate the parasympathetic nervous system to end the panic attack.

Affirmations: Affirmations can overcome negative stimuli and alter thoughts to visualize positive images. Patients can use positive affirmations such as "I am safe," "I am protected," "I control my peace," etc.

Low Impact Movement: Low-impact movements such as Yoga can help regulate blood pressure, blood flow, and the nervous system. Focus on movement and breathing to facilitate the transition from a flight-or-fight response to a state of complete relaxation.

Rest and Relax: Panic attacks can take a toll on the nervous system. Relaxing and resting for a few days after an attack is essential. This will allow the body ample time to recover. Taking a warm bath before sleep is also helpful.

Living with the Condition: Life with panic disorder can be challenging. The patient may feel physically and mentally challenged. Individuals with panic disorder withdraw from their lives and avoid potential triggers for panic. Some people with panic disorder are even unable to move out into the community to get groceries or other necessary household objects. Panic disorder also impacts sleep patterns, the digestive system, and immune health. However, it is a treatable disorder that can be successfully managed with medications and/or psychotherapy.

• Symptoms and Causes