Panic Attacks: Learn How to Control It

Panic attacks can have a great impact on a person's way of living - more so if left unattended. There are several ways which can help control panic attacks aside from taking drug prescription. First, what happens what are panic attacks? Panic attacks are psychological in nature and may be a symptom of an anxiety disorder. It is natural for people to experience panic attacks at some point in their lives but if it is left untreated, it can disrupt a person's usual routine. The symptoms include sudden feelings of fear, palpitations and chest pains, difficulty in breathing, feeling faint or weak and feeling sweaty or having chills. Although no one is known to have died from panic attacks, its symptoms may have a long term effect on the body if proper action is not taken to control it. Here are simple ways to help prevent and control panic attacks.

Controlling your breathing is one of the best ways to prevent a panic attack from happening. This is important as hyperventilation is the most common symptom of a panic attack. By trying to control your breathing, you will be able to prevent having a faster heart rate, experiencing chest pains and feeling dizzy - all of which can lead to fainting. When you already feel that your breathing has become faster than usual, deliberately slow down its pace. Take breaths and hold it in for 5 to 10 seconds before releasing. If possible, do this while lying down for you to be able to focus on your breathing.

Although this can be difficult for many, relaxing the muscles is important in fighting panic attacks. Most often, people with anxiety disorders are unaware how they are making muscle movements particularly on the face. Tense muscles can also affect the body's posture and may cause neck and back discomfort. The best way to relax your muscles is by lying down and breathing in and out slowly. Do your best to relieve your muscles of tensions. Doing so will release endorphins which in turn help alleviate panic attack symptoms. You can also try massage therapy particularly if you are experiencing back pains.

Reading books which discuss anxiety and panic disorders in depth can have a great effect in stopping panic attacks from occurring again. It is, in fact, considered as one of the most effective ways to deal with anxiety disorders. What panic attack sufferers need is a deeper understanding of their condition. Once they have gained deeper knowledge of their condition's cause and symptoms, they will be able to better cope with it and in time stop it from happening again.

Although most panic attacks are psychological in nature, it is probable that medications and drugs are the reason behind it. Should you be taking any prescription drugs and are experiencing panic attacks, go to your doctor as only he or she can best help you.