Do you, at times, suffer from an overwhelming anxiety or irrational fear that you find yourself having shortness of breath, sweating, or shaking? It could be a panic attack. It can happen suddenly without a clear reason, and can be a one-time thing or may repeat numerous times. Find out about the treatment for panic attacks.

Panic Attack - Definition

Panic attack is a psychological condition triggered by our brain as a defense mechanism against perceived threats. Persons suffering from panic attacks can have varied and different signs and symptoms. There are those who experience shortness of breath, racing heart rate, nausea or dizziness. At times, the lack of oxygen due to shortness of breath can heighten the sense of panic of a panic attack patient.

So, what treatment for panic attacks are now being used?

Exercise

Practicing relaxation techniques is one way to treat panic attacks. Such relaxation techniques include yoga, tai chi or other similar exercises. Since relaxation of the mind and body is the objective of these exercises, it is important to do them in a peaceful environment. Meditate and draw in an inner calm feeling from your surroundings. Other exercises that can control panic attacks are breathing and stretching techniques.

Diet

A good diet plays an important part in the treatment of panic attacks. Avoid caffeine-rich food and beverage and watch your diet. Caffeine is a stimulant that keeps the brain and body active when you'd rather be relaxed, especially during panic attacks. Coffee, soda, tea and even coffee candies may already be part of most of our daily diet but it would be wise to avoid them if you have panic attacks. Nervousness and anxiety are heightened by caffeine, and can also cause sleep deprivation that may trigger or increase the likelihood of those episodes of panic attack.

Vitamins and medication

Certain vitamins can be prescribed by your doctor to help you prevent or control panic attacks. Persons suffering from panic attacks can benefit from the calming effect of Vitamin B-complex in our system. Some anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed by doctors to help patients relax during panic attacks.

CBT - Cognitive Behavior Therapy

A CBT is used to determine the possible cause of panic attacks in a patient. This therapy centers on behaviors and thought patterns that triggers a person's panic attacks allowing one to recognize and face those triggers making the situation more acceptable, which will then help in the prevention or control of panic attacks. A patient's cooperation is important for the success of this therapy. Otherwise, it will not lead to a successful resolution of the underlying cause.

Interoceptive Exposure Therapy

This is a risky but a proven successful way to treat panic attacks. In a therapy session, the therapist will find ways to trigger the attack. Once triggered, the therapist will assure the patient that no harm that will come to him/her during the attack. Knowing this will give strength to a patient to combat the attacks in the future.

These are the available treatments for panic attacks. But they will only be possible with the patient's cooperation and determination. As what your therapist may say, everything could just be in your mind. There may be nothing wrong with your body.

How to treat panic attacks, you asked. It is best to just calm down and relax. And seek professional help from your doctor or therapist.