| Panic attacks
are common and can exist as a symptom on their own or be part
of another condition, such as panic disorder. A panic attack
can happen without warning, and can often occur for little
or no apparent reason.
Although these episodes may appear random,
research indicates that they are bought on by our own ‘fight
or flight’ response, which triggers hormones (particularly
adrenaline) to flood our body in preparation to defend itself
from a perceived threat.
The effects of panic attacks continue long
after an attack - fearing when the next attack will occur
causes persistent worrying and intense anxiety between attacks.
Panic attacks can seriously impact the way
a person lives their life by limiting what they do or where
they go as they attempt to avoid situations that trigger the
attack. Experiencing a panic attack is intensely frightening,
upsetting and uncomfortable.
Research suggests at least 1 in 10 people
experience occasional panic attacks, which are usually triggered
by a stressful event, or situation. However, people suffering
with panic disorder can have attacks on a regular and recurring
basis.
Symptoms:
Symptoms of a panic attack can be so severe
that those suffering often believe they are having a heart
attack or suffering from another life threatening illness.
Common symptoms include:
* Chest pains
* Nausea
* Breathlessness
* Pounding heartbeat
* A fear of dying
* Sweating
* Dizziness
* Trembling or shaking
* Choking sensations
* Numbness
* Headache
* Exhaustion
* Terror
Cause:
Panic attacks occur when a high level of
anxiety causes adrenalin to produce severe symptoms. There
are a number of factors that may contribute to a panic attack,
such as:
* A traumatic or stressful experience such
as a bereavement. Feelings of panic and anxiety may occur
soon after the event, or may appear years later when they
are not expected.
* Some research suggests panic attacks may be more likely
if a close member of your family also suffers from them
* A chemical imbalance in the brain may also increase the
risk of panic attacks
Treatment:
Hypnotherapy can help to alleviate anxiety
by direct suggestion and by behavioural training. It can be
used to:
* Desensitise the sufferer from certain stressors
* Help take back control by recognising and regulating previously
inappropriate responses
* Teach new ways to relax
* Break habitual behaviours
* Remove anxiety triggers
* Dissociate the sufferer from anxiety causing problems
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