– What You Need to Know Panic Attacks
Panic attacks result in sudden-onset, transient emotions related to fear, coupled with physical reactions as a response to often non-threatening conditions. As you have a panic attack, you may consider sweating a lot, have some problems with breathing, and have palpitations. A panic disorder might develop as well when your behavior alters to an avoiding state.
In the US alone, 11% of the total population experiences panic attacks at some point in their lives. Out of the total, about 2 to 3% tend to develop panic disorders.
The Signs and Symptoms of Panic Attacks
The actual cause behind panic attacks is not known, and researchers are yet to discover how panic attacks take the form of panic disorders. The nervous system, as well as the brain, play big roles in showing you how you handle fear, anxiety and how you perceive them. You might have an increased risk of developing a panic attack if:
- Mental Health conditions – Individuals having depression, anxiety, stress, and other conditions are likely to have panic attacks.
- Family history – People with a history of mental health conditions may develop panic disorders and attacks.
- Addiction – People with drug addiction or alcoholism are likelier to have panic attacks.
The Causes of Panic Attacks
Panic attacks happen with a sudden onset, and usually, there is no clear way to stop the attacks. Most often, the symptoms appear in under 10 minutes of the initiation of the attack. Some signs of panic attacks include the following:
- Chills and sweats
- Chest pain with smothering or choking sensations
- Difficulty in breathing
- Palpitations and trembling
- Numbness or tingling in extremities
- Nausea
The Treatment Options for Panic Attacks
Treatment of panic attacks includes taking psychology sessions and medications. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is used for addressing the situation and is often helpful in treating panic disorders. In some cases, medications may be required. Antidepressant drugs are given to the individual to reduce the frequency and intensity of the attacks. These include Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors or SNRIs as well as serotonin selective reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs. Tricyclic antidepressants or TCAs are also prescribed in some conditions. Anti-anxiety medications are also given.
If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, telemedicine makes it possible for you to get the care you deserve. Schedule a virtual consultation with a Telakai Health online Provider and get on the road to recovery. Schedule your visit today.