by C.M. Tucker

Created on: February 05, 2007   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

Panic attacks manifest as a physical condition regardless of it's source or cause. So, panic attacks should be treated like a physical condition as well as a psychological one.

A true panic attack is an involuntary bodily response. It seems to result from excess adrenaline or cortisol that is suddenly dumped into the bloodstream. These are hormones that the body produces as a result of either stress or an intense fear.

Most definitions found on the Internet suggest phobias and other fears as the root cause. However, it is not clear to me if that is always the case.

First, use physical means to treat the onset. (Please verify all medical advice with your health care practitioner.) If the symptoms are severe, call someone you trust and talk to them about it... ask them to get help if you need it. The symptoms should NOT be ignored. Second, get at the root of the problem whether it is from a physical or a mental source.

PHYSICAL TREATMENT SUGGESTIONS (as approved by your medical professional)
1. Eat foods rich in Tryptophan like a turkey sandwich. Vitamin B2 is necessary for normal tryptophan metabolism. This particular vitamin, among other vitamins, is often depleted in those who take certain birth control pills.
2. Slow and deep breathing. Breathe in deeply through the nose and exhale slowly through the mouth. If shortness of breath is present, breathe both ways through the mouth.
3. Lay down. This will help control high blood pressure if that condition is present or suspected.
4. Regularly take a multi-vitamin.
5. A particular vitamin combination mentioned in Earl Mendell's vitamin bible works like Valium. a 2 to 1 ratio is recommended for calcium and magnesium supplements. Be careful not to over do or do too often. Too much calcium too often may be toxic. The body can only absorb about 500 to 600 mgs at a time.
6. Engage in regular exercise. Exercise during the onset of symptoms can be dangerous, depending on the symptoms.

MENTAL OR OTHER TREATMENT SUGGESTIONS
1. Learn Yoga and Meditation techniques. Breathing exercises are a part of learning meditation. Breathing exercises can benefit those with heart, blood pressure and stress related problems.
2. Take up Tai-Chi if possible. This combines movement and breathing. Both of which help the body cope with either physical or emotional trauma.
3. See a psychologist who specializes in cognitive therapy. A psychIATRIST treats patients with drugs first and primarily. If your situation actually requires drugs, then that's a different story.
4. Keep a daily or weekly diary. Pay attention to whether that helps or makes the attacks more frequent. If it makes the attacks more frequent, then seeing a psychologist would be recommended.

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