Anxiety Attacks? What are They?

By Gordon Dalwood

Let's face it; experiencing a certain amount of anxiety is virtually inevitable nowadays, and providing it doesn't get out of control, it's not necessarily a bad thing. Of course, when anxiety does get out of control, this psychological problem manifests itself in a very physical way, such as in panic attacks.

For the most part, a panic attack occurs with virtually no prior warning when one experiences a sever amount of anxiety and you can be rest assured, there's no mistaking the symptoms. These include rapid breathing, dizziness and even chest pains. In fact, the symptoms of a panic attack are extremely similar to those which are experienced with a heart attack, thus often causing victims to think that's what's happening.

Of course, the onset of such an attack can result in a great deal of fear for the individual experiencing it. (The reason why it's called a panic attack) As a result, a person who experiences severe and frequent panic attacks can suffer a huge loss in the quality of life. This is primarily because those who are experiencing frequent panic attacks will be limited in the activities they do, due to the threat of the condition always being present.

Strangely enough, the fundamental cause of panic attacks still remains unclear to a large extent. On the other hand, research as shown that there are numerous factors which can and do contribute to a panic attack such as depression, frustration, anger, alcohol and also drugs. Even certain genetic factors can result in the onset of panic attacks.

While it may well appear to be easier said than done, it's crucial that one takes certain steps in order to lessen the impact of a panic attack and most important of all, these steps need to be taken immediately upon the onset of an attack. Interestingly enough, deep, slow breathing has been proven to be effective and as a result, this method is widely practiced.

Of course, if simple breathing exercises were all that were needed to deal with the problem then it really would not be a problem at all. In other words, it is most definitely necessary to seek the help of a qualified mental health professional in order to receive the proper counseling needed to reverse the problems associated with the condition.

Therapy may not be the entire answer for problems that are anxiety related. Consider your need for psychotropic solutions which may become a necessity. A complete psychiatric evaluation will be necessary before a psychiatrist would prescribe these drugs. By keeping to the schedule that is recommended by your doctor for the medicine, there may be a big difference in the rate at which the attacks occur and how severe they are in turn helping you to get a handle on the attacks.

Irrespective of which methods you choose to utilize, you need to bear in mind that it's definitely possible for you to take control of the situation. Providing you are able to recognize the condition, and acknowledge the fact that you suffer from it, you'll be able to seek help. - 30309

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