subject: Techniques in Managing Panic Attack at Home [print this page] Techniques in Managing Panic Attack at Home
Managing panic attack can be done at home; you just have to make sure that the symptoms are not mistaken for a different illness like heart attack. As panic attack is often mistaken as heart attack, the sufferer, as well as the people around him or her, should be able to tell the difference.
When confident that the symptoms are those of a panic episode's, the following can be useful in managing it:
1. Cutback on the consumption of substances that are known to worsen panic attacks such as alcohol, caffeine, and illegal drugs.
2. Start exercising. You may opt for aerobic exercises which are effective not only for losing weight but also improving the circulation of blood and oxygen in the body. When these processes are efficient, all the body parts will receive appropriate nutrition. The brain will also be able to function well and make managing panic attack easier. A person who thinks clearly always knows what to do better.
3. In case of an attack and a paper bag is being used for breathing regulation, it is important to be cautious that extreme carbon dioxide concentration may cause other problems. In fact, when symptoms are actually a manifestation of other conditions linked with oxygen deprivation-- like a heart attack or asthma-- the condition may worsen a great deal. So again, it is very crucial to clearly classify what is happening. If it's panic attack, then go on with the paper bag. If unsure though, better drop the bag off.
4. If you already had some panic episodes before, then you must know by now that one of the things you should do is try to relax once another one occurs. Loosen up your shoulders and be conscious of the muscle tension you may be feeling. Then, try to breathe slowly. Place your hand on top of your tummy. This helps in managing panic attack because it makes you more aware of one of the most common symptoms: hyperventilation. When breathing, it may also help to breathe out by pursing your lips as if you were blowing a candle out. Doing this can help slow down your breathing.
5. Repeatedly tell yourself that you are not going crazy nor are you going to die. Think of the first or other times you had panic attacks and recovered from them. This, too, will pass. You just need to take it easy and get yourself steady.
It can never be emphasized enough that a panic attack should be unmistakably classified. If unable to tell what the symptoms are pointing at exactly, it is important to seek medical attention. Never self-medicate. If there is another illness, self-care at home is not advisable. Moreover, even if there is already an assurance that the person is prone to having panic episodes, but shows new symptoms that he or she didn't have before, applying techniques in managing panic attack at home is not appropriate. He or she should see the doctor as soon as possible.
