Panic attacks, also known as anxiety attacks, are episodes of intense and extreme fear in which the victim feels he/she is losing all sense of reality as his/her sanity goes reeling out of control. A panic attack symptom can often be mistaken for a number of serious problems and as such, they can be very destructive to normal functioning as they not only add to stress, but leave a lasting impact, which keeps terrifying the victim long after the episode is over. It is for this reason that treatment for panic disorders and attacks is vital for survival and mental well being. This article will provide you with key information about what a panic attack symptom may look like and how they can be treated. However, before one jumps into treatment it is important to remember that treatment is only possible if the symptoms are properly understood. Hence, allow this article to first impart on you some key information about panic attack symptoms and its resulting implications.

Since panic episodes usually last for about thirty minutes, the hindrance to normal functioning is considerable, more so because they can occur anywhere and anytime. Among the most common panic attack symptoms you need to be wary of is shortness of breath or hyperventilation. These feelings are usually coupled with heart palpitations or a racing heartbeat. People have also reported chest pains and other feelings of discomfort in the chest region such as choking. These though are not the complete list of symptoms; others include trembling or shaking, sweating, and nausea or upset stomach.

One of the first senses which tend to be hit by a panic attack is the head/mind with people experiencing an attack often complaining of feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or faint. While all of these symptoms are very serious in their own regard, the worst experience remains the feeling of complete loss of control with the victim thinking he/she is about to die.

Since panic attacks are such a grave issue and its symptoms are no laughing matter, it is imperative that professional help be looked for if one does occur. The sooner treatment is found, the better it will be; conversely the more one procrastinates, the stronger will be the severity of the attack itself.

Help will come in many forms and types. One of the common methods of treatment is behavioural therapy which aims to help alter your thinking patterns so that your behaviour can be altered as a result. Contrarily, you also have the option of medications open to you, although you should be warned that these drugs are very addictive and can cause serious withdrawal symptoms. Nonetheless, benzodiazepines are an appealing option to people suffering from panic attacks since they are very fast acting and can thus help nullify the symptoms associated with the effects of an attack by providing instant relief.

Remember though that medications on their own aren’t the best solution since they are not able to counter the root causes of anxiety. Hence, if a permanent solution to panic attacks is desired then it is highly advised that behavioural therapy – be it Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy or Exposure Therapy – accompany the medications you take.

Alternatively, you yourself can reduce the severity of a panic attack symptom by engaging in habits which do not induce stress and instead offer relaxation. Hence, you should try and avoid the intake of alcohol, nicotine and caffeine as all three products are known to heighten anxiety levels. Meanwhile, to increase relaxation of the body and mind you should rigidly follow a regular exercise plan. Alternatively, you could enroll yourself in a yoga class which would teach you how to control your breathing such that both your mind and your body’s muscles are given a breather whenever you want.

Darren Bardsleyis a panic and anxiety attack expert. A sufferer himself for the last decade, he has mastered his own disorder and is now sharing his vast knowledge and the secrets to a panic free life. For more detailed information on your panic attack symptom, visit http://www.panicattacksurvivalguide.com.

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