Prevention of Panic Attacks

Panic attack can be prevented in one way by determining what stimulated the condition so the next encounter can be avoided. But some panic attack may be hard to prevent when there is unknown cause.

Phobias can cause panic attack. That is why avoiding the object or situation that causes the phobia helps to prevent panic attacks. Panic attack can result in various symptoms including hyperventilation or rapid breathing, in which there is shallow but fast breathing leading to fall in the concentration of carbon dioxide in the blood which in turn causes numbness in the limbs, nausea, and dizziness. It also results in headache or even fainting. In this case, preventing hyperventilation can also lessen the severity of the panic attack. Hyperventilation can be treated by breathing through a brown paper bag. Breathing from the diaphragm rather than chest breathing is an effective way to control and slow down breathing.

Prevention of fear that causes panic attack should also be seriously considered. There are different types of fear that can be associated with panic attack: fear of loosing control, fear of going crazy or becoming mad, fear of dying and even fear of fear itself. It is important to get rid of the particular fear first to prevent panic attack.

Regardless of the cause of panic attacks, doctors and other professional experts in this field mainly suggest three method of preventing panic attack, which are medications, CBT or cognitive behavioral therapy, and relaxation techniques.

Doctors try to treat the symptoms of panic attack by prescribing Benzodiazapines, and anti-depressants - particularly SSRIs or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. These medications are effective in the treatment of anxiety, depression and phobias that may stimulate panic attack. Cognitive behavioral therapy, on the other hand, uses the method of symptom induction, where in the patient is intentionally exposed to the situation or stimulus that causes the panic attack. However, a combination of both medication and therapy is most effective in preventing panic attacks.

Relaxation techniques are extremely helpful in preventing panic attacks accompanied by meditation techniques which can result in a positive outlook on life and help overcome imaginary fears. Regular exercise and eating meals with fresh vegetables could also help prevent panic attacks. Avoiding processed food, stimulants, caffeine, cigarettes, alcohol and other intoxicants, is strongly recommended. Monitoring and maintaining the right level of blood sugar in the body is also advisable in preventing panic attack.

Communication with close friends and family members about your emotional problems and fears is an effective way to prevent the onset of panic attack. Through communication you will prevent the build up of strong emotions or feelings inside yourself that can make your condition worse. Lifestyle changes to improve your over all physical and mental health will also be helpful. The faith of having the ability to cope with problems that comes your way will be the very important also in preventing panic attacks.

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