Anxiety and Panic Attacks 101

Anxiety disorders and the panic attacks caused by anxiety are not a well known condition, but they can have a devastating effect on a person. Women who suffer from an anxiety disorder tend to have both physical and mental symptoms that can make it hard to function normally.

Fortunately, there are some effective ways of overcoming panic attacks and dealing with anxiety. Here is everything you need to know about anxiety disorders.

What Are Anxiety-Related Conditions?

Keep in mind that panic attacks and anxiety disorders are two different things, even though they are often confused. People with anxiety disorders are plagued by fears and anxiety in everyday situations. It is defined as feeling tension in situations where the average person is not threatened.

This often causes panic attacks, which is a sudden instance of extreme and debilitating fear and worry. Not all people with an anxiety problem will have panic attacks, but all people with panic attacks do have anxiety disorders.

What Causes Anxiety Problems?

The precise cause of panic attacks or anxiety is not precisely known. It seems to be linked to a prolonged exposure to stressful situations or past traumas. These circumstances can also be caused by out of balance stress hormones.

Cortisol, adrenaline, and other stress related brain chemicals can be influenced by a variety of factors, including medication, caffeine, blood pressure, and sleep habits.

How Can You Recognize an Anxiety Disorder?

People who have an anxiety disorder or panic attack tend to experience the following symptoms:

- Trouble sleeping or concentrating

- Extreme sweating

- Tense muscles or cramps

- Irregular or fast heartbeat

- Overwhelming fear

- Difficulty breathing

- Stomach or chest pain

- Sensations of dizziness or faintness

- Feeling chills or heatwave

- Tingling or numbness

- Feeling detached from reality or oneself

- Difficulty sleeping or feeling rested

Are There Treatments for Anxiety Issues?

If you have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, do not despair. These treatments can help to make the condition less problematic.

- Talk to a mental health professional. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help teach people to manage anxiety in healthier ways.- Consider taking anti-anxiety medications or antidepressants.- Exercise regularly.- Practice meditation to ease stress.- Avoid caffeine and other stimulants.- Stop drinking excessive alcohol.- Practice breathing exercises during panic attacks.