Panic Attack Treatment Brisbane Northside
The stress brought about by the fast-paced lifestyle of today has caused distress amongst Australians. One of which is panic attacks. Ubuntu Medical is providing intervention to individuals having a hard time coping with life’s stressors, especially those who live in the Northside of Brisbane where the facility is easily accessible.
What is a Panic Attack?
A panic attack is an episode of intense fear without any identified cause. A person experiencing a panic attack may feel frightened, think they are losing control, and mimic symptoms of heart attack or dying. Typically, panic attacks only happen once or twice in a person’s life and usually takes place whenever there is a stressful situation. However, if panic attacks are a recurring incident, you may have a panic disorder that should be looked into by a professional.
Panic attacks are not life-threatening but experiencing it may be inconvenient and frightening. Some who are afflicted with this condition are suffering a poor quality of life. It is best to have it treated.
What are the Symptoms?
Panic attacks usually come like a thief in the nite. They suddenly begin without warning and can take place at any moment. Panic attacks usually last for a couple of minutes and the person may feel worn out after the episode. Usually, panic attacks have the following symptoms:
- Feeling frightened about impending doom or danger
- Loss of control Feelings of death
- Fast heartbeat
- Sweating
- Trembling or shaking
- Shortness of breath
- Tightness of throat
- Chills or hot flashes
- Nausea
- Abdominal cramps
- Chest pain
- Headache
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or faintness
- Tingling sensation
- Detachment from reality
- A person who experienced a panic attack may fear going thru it again and may avoid situations that may trigger it.
What Causes Panic Attacks?
It remains unknown what causes panic attacks. However, the following factors may influence the condition
- Genetics
- Stress
- Sensitive temperament
- Changes in brain activity
Who Are at Risk?
Panic attacks are usually observed during late teen years or early adulthood. However, it does not mean that older people cannot experience it. Your chance of panic attacks may increase due to:
- Family history
- Major life stress or changes such as death or serious illness of a loved one
- Traumatic life events
- Major life changes
- Smoking or excessive caffeine intake
- History of physical or sexual abuse
- Panic attacks also occur more on women than men. If left untreated, there may be other complications that can be experienced such as:
- Development of phobias
- ‘Having health concerns and medical conditions
- Avoiding social situations
- Problems at school or at work
- Mental health disorders
- Increased risk of suicide or suicidal thoughts
- Alcohol or substance abuse
- Financial problems
How to Treat Panic Attacks?
Your primary healthcare provider may help you narrow down the symptoms of your panic attacks and determine that it is not caused by any underlying medical condition such as heart or thyroid problems. You may be asked to go thru a couple of tests such as physical exam, blood tests for the thyroid, electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) for the heart, and psychological assessments asking about your symptoms, fears, concerns, relationships, amongst others.
Psychotherapy or talk therapy is the most common and effective choice for treatment of panic attacks. Thru this process, you will be able to understand the root causes and how to cope with them. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), a form of psychotherapy, can also help you learn thru your own experience by recreating the symptoms of the panic attack in a safe, non-threatening environment. The process goes on until you no longer feel threatened. Thru this, you will be able to manage the situation when it arises.
Medications are seen to reduce the symptoms associated with panic attacks. The following have been proven effective:
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). They have minimal side effects and are usually the first choice of medication when treating panic attacks.
Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). These are antidepressants and are likewise approved as treatment for panic disorder.
Benzodiazepines. These are central nervous system depressants and should only be used on a short-term basis. Patients who have taken this medicine have seen dependance on the drug. The medicine is not a good choice for those who have problems with alcohol or drug use.
To help you to with your recovery, it is best to stick with your treatment plan and find support from people your trust. Doing a lifestyle change such as staying physically active, getting sufficient sleep, and eating a balanced diet also helps.
Need Panic Attack treatment Brisbane northside? The professionals at Ubuntu Medical Stafford can help you! Call us now on (07) 3857 3777.
At Ubuntu Medical, we also offer Anxiety Therapy. We also offer other services. For a full list, click HERE.