The term "panic attack" is used to refer to a condition wherein a person experiences a sudden and overwhelming amount of fear and anxiety. During a panic attack, you might find that your heart pounds beyond your control, and some people even think that they're having a heart attack. Although they are incredibly scary, panic attacks usually don't cause any long-lasting physical effects, though the emotional effects can be quite dangerous. Some people who have regular panic attacks will begin to withdraw from social situations, and they may not be able to live their life normally. Here, we'll attempt to answer the question on what causes panic attacks and how are they treated.
What Are the Causes of Panic Attacks?
Although the exact causes behind panic attacks are difficult to pinpoint, when answering the question on what causes panic attacks and how are they treated, it's worth noting that the tendency to suffer from these issues often runs in families. Research also suggests that there may be a connection between significant transitions in life and severe periods of stress associated with panic attacks.
In some cases, a panic attack might be caused by physical issues and medical problems. For instance, if you suffer from symptoms that are similar to panic, then it's important for your doctor to rule out physical problems that could help to explain your condition. For instance, you might have a mitral valve prolapse. This is a type of small cardiac problem that happens when the valves in the heart are not closing properly. Other medical conditions that might cause panic attacks include hypoglycemia, the use of stimulants, hyperthyroidism, or withdrawal from specific medications.
Treatments for Panic Attacks:
When answering the question on what causes panic attacks and how are they treated, it's important to remember that panic attacks are highly treatable. Most of the time, these issues can be successfully managed using self-help strategies and a series of sessions with therapists. For instance, you might consider looking into cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which is one of the most effective treatments for panic attacks and panic disorder. CBT focuses on assessing the thinking patterns that sustain or trigger panic attacks.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is intended to help patients consider their fears from a more realistic perspective. On the other hand, exposure therapy can also be used for panic disorder. During exposure therapy, patients are exposed to the sensations that come with panic in a controlled environment so that they might learn healthier coping mechanisms. A doctor might ask you to hyperventilate or hold your breath to create sensations similar to panic. Every time you are exposed to these feelings you will become less afraid of your bodily sensations and therefore be able to control your panic a little better.
Medications for Panic Attacks:
Sometimes, medication can be used to help temporarily manage or reduce the symptoms that are associated with panic disorder. However, drugs should always be connected with other forms of treatment, such as lifestyle changes and therapy. Although medication can help with anxiety and depression, the underlying cause of the panic also needs to be addressed.