What Are Anxiety Attacks Symptoms & What Can You Do About Them?
Almost everybody has experienced anxiety. Your palms are sweaty, you’re all worried or you feel scared. This is all normal. But if you are having episodes of intense panic or fear, then most likely you are suffering from anxiety attacks or panic attacks. With anxiety attacks there is usually a trigger. For example, you are stuck in an elevator or you are about to give a speech in a few hours. However there are also cases wherein the attacks come out of the blue.
Anxiety attack symptoms usually peak within 10 minutes and don’t last for more than 30 minutes. The main difference between worrying and having an anxiety attack is the severity of the symptoms. Some people feel that they are literally dying or overwhelmed with the feeling of terror and fear. Some people even have symptoms akin to a heart attack.
Here are some common anxiety attack symptoms that you should be wary of: overwhelming panic, hyperventilation, heart palpitations and chest pain, troubled breathing or choking sensation, nausea or stomach cramps, hot flashes and chills, feeling of losing control or going crazy and feeling as though your going to pass out.
If your fear or anxiety is beginning to affect your day to day life, then it is time to get professional help. Having anxiety attacks can leave you feeling helpless and drained. Soon you will begin to worry about getting a panic attack. This will lead to having low self confidence or you might begin to shy away from social engagements for fear of panicking in public.
People who have sought treatment for anxiety disorders see a lot of improvement during a short period of time. Behavior therapy focuses on modifying behavior in order to conquer anxiety. Cognitive-behavior therapy for example, focuses on thoughts and negative thinking pattern that fuels your fears and worries. Exposure therapy on the other hand helps a person confront fears directly in a controlled environment.
Physicians prescribe oral medications like anti-depressants to those who need it. However, studies have shown that medication is most effective when it is combined with therapy. Patients who have combined medication and therapy often see great improvement in the lessening of anxiety attack symptoms and suffer the least relapse.
Natural remedies to anxiety also exist. Exercise is one of the most effective ways of dealing with anxiety. Studies have shown at as little as 30 minutes thrice weekly sessions at the gym can greatly reduce stress and anxiety attacks. Meditation can also do wonders as it helps the mind concentrate on other things that are more relaxing and calming. Meditation need not be spiritual. Even a simple thing such as focusing thoughts on your next vacation can greatly relive anxiety and panic attacks.
Speaking of relaxation, did you know that a massage can help alleviate your anxiety attack symptoms? Massages are great stress busters. When you feel all stressed out or feel like an attack is coming along, try to get a massage instead and see if it works for you.
