Diagnosing/Possible causes of panic attacks?
I believe that I suffer from stress induced panic attacks. When they occur my heart begins to race and my breathing becomes labored. Sometimes I feel extreme tension and clench my jaw…does this sound like a panic attack? What would bring this on- could it indeed be stress? And more importantly how can it be treated?
Please go to the National Anxiety Foundation website and click on Panic Disorder. It's very informative and will help steer you in the right direction for treatment.
How many panic attacks does one have to experience to be diagnosed with Panic Disorder?
6 Responses to “Diagnosing/Possible causes of panic attacks?”
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November 12th, 2008 6:41 pm
it is typically treated with anti depression medicine but be careful. a lot of medicine that they put you on for panic attacks also numb the part of the brain that tells you when you are full. basically you can eat constantly if you are not careful.
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November 12th, 2008 7:08 pm
Please go to the National Anxiety Foundation website and click on Panic Disorder. It's very informative and will help steer you in the right direction for treatment.
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November 12th, 2008 7:47 pm
See panic attacks and stress treatments, at http://www.ezy-build.net.nz/~shaneris on pages 8, and 7.
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November 12th, 2008 7:54 pm
That sounds like a very very mild panic attack. Panic attacks usually include a racing heart, sweaty palms, feeling out of control (fear of dying etc.), nausea, nervousness, etc. Also, panic attacks are usually brought on by a situation or fear, it could be from stress. Go see your doctor and they will advise you on some medications you can take. I personally have had panic attacks since about the age of 7, and Paxil works great for me, but everyone is different and it does not work for some. Good luck! and be happy it's not worse.
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I have anxiety disorder and suffer from panic attacks
November 12th, 2008 8:41 pm
The root cause of a panic attack is usually something very simple. Anemia, thyroid disorder, hormone imbalance, adrenal fatigue, poor diet with too much sugar and caffeine, lack of nutrients are the main causes.
You can start trying different drugs to treat the symptoms (racing heart, etc), if that's the way you want to go, or you can start finding out the problem and take steps to correct it. The problem with taking drugs to mask the symptoms is that your original problem worsens over time. Worsening anemia, for example, can lead to huge medical problems if not treated, and antidepressants don't cure the cause.
This is why I think it's important to get to the cause of the anxiety, rather than drug the symptoms.
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November 12th, 2008 9:23 pm
Hi, sorry to hear you are feeling bad. Any kind of underlying anxiety or stress (even unconscious stress) can bring on a panic attack.
Believe it or not, you're in complete control of whether or not you have a panic attack - recognising that is the first step to overcoming it. The following steps will eliminate (or at least significantly reduce) your panic attacks:
1.Breathe properly - if you control your breathing, you control panic. As soon as you notice the signs of anxiety, check your breathing: breathe in slowly through your nose pushing your tummy out (to the count of 5 or so). Breathe out slowly and for a bit longer (to the count of 7 or so) through your mouth. Do not breathe rapidly or shallowly (in the chest area). This will soon restore the balance of oxygen and you will feel a lot better.
2. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy! CBT is proven to be the most effective thing for panic attacks and anxiety. It takes a bit of work, but it is super effective. (After 15 years of panic attacks, mine stopped completely). You can take a course for free online at: http://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/resources/minipax.cfm?mini_ID=23
With each step practise makes perfect. (i.e. practise the steps every day, not just when you are feeling bad). I hope you feel better soon. Best of luck!
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