Stopping Panic Attacks In Their Tracks
Experts do not know exactly what causes panic attacks. When our body perceives danger, it reacts by either preparing to run away or dealing with the situation. This is called the “flee or flight” response. When this happens we get a burst of energy, our heart rate increases and we breathe heavily. A panic attack occurs when this situation is triggered when there is no real danger. Many people feel helpless when it comes to panic attacks but you can be successful in stopping panic attacks.
The overwhelming symptom of a panic attack is an intense feeling of terror. Your pulse starts to race and it is hard to breathe. You might even feel as though you are having a heart attack because you may start to have chest pain. First time sufferers usually end up in the emergency room.
You can suffer a panic attack anywhere. It starts to build slowly with a feeling of impending doom and overwhelming fear. No place is safe, you can be in your car or sound asleep. You can be in the middle of a relaxed conversation when it happens.
Studies have shown that panic disorder runs in the family. If someone in your family suffers from anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder or depression, you may be at higher risk of having panic attacks. You can learn how to stop panic attacks.
Major life events and physical illness can bring on panic attacks. There are also medicines that can trigger something in your brain and cause a panic attack. After your first panic attack, you live in fear of another. Usually it happens because you are so worried about having another attack that you bring one on. Get some help in stopping panic attacks and reduce the fear.
There are other causes of panic attacks, they are:
- Depression
- Alcohol or other drug abuse
- Too many cigarettes or coffee
Even though you may not know what causes your panic attacks, you can take steps to stop the attack once it starts. It may seem like you are dying but remember that people don’t die from panic attacks. When you do feel an attack coming on, breathe deeply and think calm thoughts. Do whatever is necessary to get through those 10 to 20 minutes of terror. Keep reading for more information.
Most people believe that stress is what causes panic attacks. Stopping panic attacks is possible if you find out what is stressing you out and start working on that. You may not think that you are stressed. Do some internal thinking and talk to your doctor about lowering your stress. Find ways to eliminate what is going on in your life that might be creating stressful situations.
Don’t suffer from panic attacks so much that it messes up your normal day to day activities. Stop panic attacks for good by identifying the causes for you and overcome them.