The first stage of the panic attack that is treated with medication is the anticipation of the panic attack. This is called "anticipatory anxiety" and it plays a large part in the buildup of panic toward a full blown attack. The medicine that treats the first stage of symptoms takes care of the physical symptoms and the negative thoughts that make up the anticipation of the panic attack.
The second stage of the panic attack that needs to be managed through medicine is the severe symptoms associated with the attack itself. Some drug treatments handle each stage separately, and other approaches manage both stages with the same medicine.
The following classes of medicine are used to treat panic attacks.
** Beta Blockers (Propranolol, Atenolol) **
Beta blockers treat the physical symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks including racing heartbeat and trembling or shakes.
Benzodiazepines are long-term medications for severe conditions that can be taken for years. These are said to be extremely effective in 70-80% of patience who suffer from panic attacks. It has fewer side effects than other medication; however in some people it actually causes anxiety, so it should be used under close supervision.
These medicines are family of anti-depressant medicines which are sometimes used to treat patients who suffer from panic attacks. The choice of MAOI's over other medicines for panic disorder can sometimes be related to other psychological or medical issues. Sometimes existing depression will be treated along with the panic attacks with a single medication - and this is often when the MAOI is used.
SSRIs were first prescribed for depression under the name Prozac. Subsequent to this, it was recognized that the fact that SSRIs maintained appropriate levels of serotonin in the brain meant that this class of medication could also be used to treat anxiety and panic disorders, which have also been found to respond to an increase in levels of serotonin in the brain.
The most common prescribed medications for panic attacks are benzodiazepines which appear to be most effective, although they are often used in combination with SSRI in order to treat more of the symptoms of anxiety and depression that surround the panic attack episodes.
The most important aspect of medications for panic attacks is to recognize that they are not a solution. Medication serves to relieve the symptoms of the disorder so that you are able to focus your attention and energy on developing more positive thought patterns, improving your "self-talk", and creating methods to confront and conquer the stresses and anxieties that have caused the panic attacks in the past. The only way to truly cure a panic attack is not through medication, but through a combination of medicine and an intensive treatment plan with a qualified therapist.
The first step a person should do is to start talking and praying to God. A person can go to church or to a quiet place during the day to tell God that they are having a problem. They should tell God how they feel and ask God for some of his help. A person could also review the Bible and read some articles on trusting in God and then apply these concepts in their life. Each and every day, a person should make it up a habit to talk to God and ask for his help.
When feeling anxious, stop what you are doing and try to do something that will relax you. A person should take a deep breath and try to find something to do for a few minutes to get their mind off of the problem. A person could get some fresh air, listen to some music, or do an activity that will give them a fresh perspective on things.
Remember that our fearful thoughts are exaggerated and can make the problem worse. A good way to manage your worry is to challenge your negative thinking with positive statements and realistic thinking. When encountering thoughts that make your fearful or anxious, challenge those thoughts by asking yourself questions that will maintain objectivity and common sense.
When overwhelmed with worry, a person may encounter a lot of scary thoughts coming at them all at once. Instead of getting upset, remember that these thoughts are exaggerated and are not based on reality. From my interviews with various professionals, I've learned that usually it is the fear behind the thoughts that gets us worked up. Ignore the fear behind these thoughts, and your worry should decrease.
Remember that all the worrying in the world will not change anything. I realized that most of what we worry about never comes true. Instead of worrying about something that probably won't happen, concentrate on what you are able to do. Everything else you can leave in the hands of God.
As a Layman, I realize it is not easy to deal with all of our fears. When your fears and anxieties have the best of you, try to calm down and then get the facts of the situation. The key is to take it slow. All you can do is to do your best each day, hope for the best, and when something does happen, take it in stride. Take things one step at a time, and things will work out.
Both George Goodman & Stanley Popovich are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
George Goodman has sinced written about articles on various topics from Panic Attacks. Did you find this article on helpful? If yes, visit our site today to find out how to deal with. George Goodman's top article generates over 3600 views. to your Favourites.
Stanley Popovich has sinced written about articles on various topics from Recreation and Sports, Anxiety and Mens Health. Stan Popovich is the author of "A Layman's Guide to Managing Fear" an easy to read book that presents a overview of techniques that are effective in managing persistent fears and anxieties. For additional information go to:. Stanley Popovich's top article generates over 22200 views. to your Favourites.