The Facts
When people go through an anxiety attack, they can become completely overwhelmed with uncontrollable emotion. Different from a simple bout of stress or frustration, anxiety attacks can strike unexpectedly and cause a powerful and indescribable sense of agony, fear or even physical pain.
Experiencing an Attack
Although not life-threatening, an anxiety attack is a frightening ordeal. The feeling of terror is very similar to the body's natural reaction to a dangerous situation, and this feeling can completely consume a person. People with a panic or anxiety disorder can experience a rapid heartbeat, shaking, dizziness, shortness of breath and a debilitating fear.
The attack can come out of nowhere and there's no way to stop it once it begins. Usually, the entire episode will subside in a matter of minutes, but for someone going through it, the effects seem to last a lifetime. Unfortunately, new attacks can happen repeatedly for hours. As a result of such attacks, many sufferers isolate themselves, become depressed, abuse drugs and alcohol, or even contemplate suicide.
Causes
Anxiety attacks can happen anytime, any place -- even during sleep. Many factors can contribute to anxiety attacks. Major life events, such as getting married, losing a loved one or even starting a new job can trigger an attack. Also, anxiety attacks could potentially be inherited from a family member. However, many times when someone has an attack, the event that triggered it is completely disproportionate to the attack.
Treatments
With the right treatment and professional therapy, many people who suffer from anxiety attacks can get their lives back. The first step is for them to become informed about anxiety attacks and understand that they're not alone. In addition, it's crucial for them to change their way of thinking, and to learn about the components that can trigger an attack.
It's important for a person to differentiate between a trigger and a simple change in her environment or her body. For example, if a room is too cold, this may give someone chills. While chills or shaking can be a symptom of a anxiety attack, the reality is that the chills came from the temperature in the room. Understanding these simple differences can set many sufferers at ease.
Depending on the level of anxiety, some doctors will prescribe medication. In addition, breathing exercises and positive thinking can also help people with anxiety attacks. Also, talking with other anxiety attack sufferers can be very helpful.
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