Anxiety Panic Disorders Can Be Treated

stress management

Millions of Americans suffer from anxiety disorders at some point in their lives. Anxiety is, to some extent, a normal reaction to stressful situations, such as having to speak in public. However, for many people, their reactions to these situations go beyond normal day-to-day nervousness. Anxiety panic disorders may affect more than six million Americans at some point in their lives. These disorders are very real illnesses that can be crippling for some people.

The main characteristic of an anxiety panic disorder is the panic attack. These attacks can happen in response to specific stress factors, or they can occur spontaneously. The sufferer may experience shortness of breath, heart palpitations, sweating and nausea, and may feel as if they are about to lose their mind. Often, the person suffering an anxiety/panic attack will end up in the emergency room because they think they are having a heart attack.

The medical tests the person undergoes can often make their anxiety worse, as they fear that something is seriously wrong with them. If a person suffers panic attacks frequently, then they may develop some sort of phobia, particularly if the attacks occur in a specific location, such as elevators. Fear of having panic attacks will often lead the sufferer to avoid specific situations or locations. Some people will develop agoraphobia and can become housebound, as they fear leaving their homes.

There are many treatments available for anxiety panic disorders. They are often remedied with the use of antidepressant drugs, which have properties that can relieve anxiety symptoms. Often doctors will advise their patients to give up smoking or drinking coffee. Caffeine and nicotine are both stimulants, which can increase anxiety symptoms. Psychotherapy, including cognitive and behavioral therapy, can also be of great help in treating anxiety disorders. So can exercise, such as yoga and tai chi. Many doctors also recommend vigorous physical exercise, such as walking or jogging to relieve stress that may cause anxiety. Herbal remedies, such as St. John's Wort, kava-kava and valerian root have been found useful as well.

Many Americans suffer from crippling anxiety panic disorders. They are serious illnesses. Many people's lives revolve around their anxiety symptoms. Fortunately, there are treatments available for anxiety disorders. Antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications and psychotherapy have benefited many people who suffer from anxiety. Stress reduction and changes in lifestyle can also be of benefit. Properly treated, panic disorders can be controlled and people who have these disorders can lead happy and fulfilling lives.