Some conditions are more frightening than others. Panic Attacks, as the name indicates, are an alarming experience.
A sudden feeling of anxiety with intense apprehension or even terror accompanied by breathing difficulties, dizziness, sweating, trembling chest pain and palpitations often lasting several minutes are all symptoms of a panic attack.
So what causes such frightening symptoms? Firstly it is necessary to rule out any serious circulation or breathing problems. If the symptoms are from a Panic Attack then it can help to know what is going on.
Panic attacks occur because the body produces too much adrenalin.
The adrenal glands produce adrenalin in response to extreme stress. Adrenalin is often called the fight or flight hormone. If you found yourself face to face with a tiger, your body would produce adrenalin, to stimulate the brain to think quickly to plan actions. Adrenalin also stimulates the cardiovascular system so there is sufficient oxygen and blood supply in the arms and legs to climb and run away from the tiger.
Fear is necessary when facing a tiger just to survive.
Now what would happen in the body if adrenalin was produced and there was no tiger or no situation of emergency? The answer is exactly the same responses. This is just what happens in a Panic Attack. Only we probably wouldn't run or climb, which is a problem as physical activity helps the body rid itself of the adrenalin, and allow us to get back to a relaxed state. So exercise is valuable to recovery.
Panic Attacks often occur after or during periods of prolonged stress, where the body has produced adrenalin over a long period. There may be something that prompts the first attack, say in a lift, or out alone far from home. The surroundings for the first attack may be the triggers for subsequent attacks. Hypnotherapy can be helpful to let go of triggers you may not be consciously aware of.
Many herbs strengthen the adrenal glands so they will not over produce adrenalin: Panax Ginseng is an excellent herb, although do not take it for more than a month at a time. Borage and Liquorice can be taken over long periods.
Other herbs such as Valerian, Motherwort, and Passiflora are just a few of the many herbs that relax the body and strengthen the Nervous System. Vitamin B complex, and vitamin C are both needed where the body is under extra stress, so eat plenty of fresh vegetables, fruit and whole grains. AND avoid sugar, which depletes Magnesium, which relaxes the body both mentally and physically. Sugar can lead to unstable blood sugar levels, which can also trigger a panic attack.
The Bach Flower Remedies such as Mimulus or Aspen can be invaluable to help dispel fears. Rescue Remedy is very effective both during and between attacks.
Generally taking good care of yourself will be important on the road to recovery, take adequate rest and relaxation everyday to allow your adrenal glands to recuperate.
Jaine Kirtley MRN RN Reg. Nurse Reg. Naturopath
Practises in Papamoa and may be contacted on 07 542 1342
Website: www.baynaturopath.co.nz
email: jaine@baynaturopath.co.nz
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