A panic attack can be described as a sudden bout of intense apprehension or fear. It can be a frightening experience, where a person goes through high levels of discomfort and fear, as the symptoms are developed abruptly and they reach their peak within ten minutes. The symptoms of a panic attack usually last for anywhere between 15 seconds to thirty minutes. More severe panic attacks can last for hours. The effects of these attacks can differ from person to person. Many first timers go as far as calling for emergency services, as they fear that they are experiencing a nervous breakdown or a heart attack. There are several panic attack causes, like all behavioral illnesses. In some cases, panic attacks could be inherited. These attacks could also be the result of some major life transitions, like graduating, losing a job or even taking up a new job, getting married or divorced, having a baby or losing a loved one. The presence of certain medical problems like asthma or heart diseases can be a common cause of panic attacks. Using certain medications like asthma medication, or steroids can also trigger off anxiety attacks, as a side effect or a symptom. Another believed cause of panic attack is nutritional deficiency.
Fortunately, panic attacks can be treated. In severe cases, the treatment of panic attacks will probably include the use of medication, to control and reduce the symptoms. However, medication should be combined with other factors like therapy and making changes to the lifestyle, to address the underlying cause of the panic disorder. The medication that is used to treat panic attacks includes antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs. Antidepressants may take weeks to begin working and therefore they should be taken continuously, not just during a panic attack. Benzodiazepine is an anti-anxiety drug, which acts quickly. If taken during a panic attack, it provides immediate relief from the symptoms. Unfortunately, as they are highly addictive and can lead to withdrawal symptoms, they should be used carefully.
In addition to medication and therapy, there are many things that you can do, to help yourself. Educate yourself about panic attacks, which can help you to be prepared in dealing with them, when one occurs. Stay away from smoking, caffeine as they can provoke such attacks. Also check with a doctor, before taking any medication that may contain stimulants. Practice of some breathing and relaxation exercises can also help you during a panic attack.
Author Resource:-
Kevin Pederson, authors web content for http://www.diethealthclub.com a complete online resource featuring diet, health and fitness. This article is focused on helping you plan for new year resolutions for healthy diet plans
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