Anxiety Attacks? What are They?

By Gordon Dalwood

We all have to deal with a certain level of anxiety in our life. In a way, minor anxiety is not a bad thing. However, when anxiety levels reach a significant level, there will be physical manifestations of this psychological problem. The most common (and severe) physical reaction is that of a panic attack.

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.

Needless to say, the onset of such a condition can lead to a great deal of fear on the person experiencing it. (This is why it is called a panic attack) An individual who is dealing with severe and constant panic attacks can suffer a severe loss in the quality of life. Generally, this is because people dealing with panic attacks will be limited in the activities they take part in due to the specter of the condition always hanging over their head.

What causes some people to have panic attacks is not known. This is not a totally unexpected thing since they do start in the mind which is not totally understood. But there are also certain things that can add to the panic attack. The use of drugs and alcohol, keeping frustrations bottled up, depression and genetics can all be contributors to 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.

Naturally, this is not a cure because if this did the job there would be no problem. The need for the help of someone trained in this area should be sought so that the problems can be dealt with and the condition reversed.

Therapy alone may not be enough to deal with all the problems related to anxiety. As such, it may be necessary to explore options with psychotropic drugs. These drugs will be carefully prescribed by a psychiatrist after a complete evaluation. Taking medication as prescribed can greatly aid in reducing the frequency and severity of panic attacks which can significantly help with getting a proverbial handle on the problem.

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. - 29881

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