Have you been encountering extreme periods of sheer panic and anxiety? Has your fear created physical problems that now encroach on your daily life making life more difficult? Are you finding it harder to lead a normal life because the next episode of panic and anxiety cannot be predicted with accuracy?
Should any of these questions describe how you feel, you may be suffering from panic attacks or panic disorder. Read on to learn more about these worrying conditions and how to handle the unpleasant symptoms.
What is a Panic Attack?
Panic Attacks usually hit without any prior warning. You are going about your daily life one minute, perhaps driving your car or grocery shopping and then the next minute an overwhelming sense of panic and anxiety attacks without warning.
To learn that panic attack sufferers call the attacks the worst moments of their lives comes as no surprise. The attacks are very frightening and are characterized by a state of panic and anxiety and an overwhelming sense of fear, as well as numerous other symptoms including the following:
- Nausea or dizziness
- Quivering, sweating, and feeling chilled or overheated
- Choking sensations and shortness of breath
- Chest pain or a pounding heart
- Strong desire to escape the situation
- Feeling certain that death or danger is going to happen right now
Panic attacks can go from a few minutes to several hours. Usually most of the attacks last for approx 30 minutes.
What is Panic Disorder?
Those who suffer from panic disorder typically experience several panic attacks within a set period of time. These attacks are unpredictable and severe and leave the victim wondering when the next panic attack will occur. There is sometimes a constant sense of worry between attacks.
Panic disorder is much more common in women than in men. It is very disruptive to the victims' daily life and usually develops in early adulthood.
Defeating Panic and Anxiety
Overcoming the panic and anxiety is the initial step toward living a normal life with panic attacks and panic disorder. There are a number of treatments available for victims to use in order to help them cope with this serious condition:
- Therapy has been shown to help many individuals. One of the most effective therapy methods for dealing with panic attacks is cognitive behavioral therapy.
- Of benefit to some people who suffer from panic and anxiety are the anti-anxiety medications and anti-depressants available.
- Meditation and healing mantras have been effective in diffusing a panic attack once it starts. Deep breathing has also been shown to help.
- Support from friends and family has also been helpful in relieving the symptoms of panic attacks for many sufferers.
You're Not Alone
Thousands of people suffer from panic and anxiety. Realizing you are not alone is an important step towards coping with panic disorders. Talk about your feeling with friends, family, and health care providers.
Many people who suffer from panic attacks feel that they are being viewed as hypochondriacs and are subsequently unwilling to share their experiences. But it is vitally important to talk about and discuss the situation with those around you.