panic attack or heart attack

ARE YOU EXPERIENCING A PANIC OR HEART ATTACK?

Panic attack are serious and an urgent disturbance that needs to be corrected as it can lead to conditions such as agoraphobia, monophobia and other phobias which the mind incorrectly associates with the panic attacks. It is truly a downwards spiral.

Monophobia is the fear of being alone

A similar, but natural, feeling similar to panic attacks is exercise. The issue here is that panic attacks happen suddenly and are the results of the body behaving like it is exercising when its not. 
The additional symptoms such as vomiting and defecating can also happen as a defense mechanism to ward off predators.

It is recommended that a therapist is seen as soon as is possible, who will help to provide the tools for you to fix the causes driving the panic attacks. 

BASIC STEPS DURING A PANIC ATTACK:

• Stay where you are as these attacks can last for up to an hour
• practice slow deep breathing [link] 
• Hold your breath and assure yourself that the situation is not dangerous
• Do some visualization exercises of somewhere peaceful 
• Use all physical means realistically possible at the time to calm yourself down. Examples include physical exercise, acupuncture, aromatherapy massage, warm baths, breathing exercises and socializing with loved ones etc.

Visualise whatever make you feel peaceful

BREATHING EXERCISES

• Relax yourself
• Only breathe through the belly and abdomen, not the chest 

If practiced correctly and regularly, then the breathing exercises could actually be the most relaxing part of your day.

EXERCISE
This is very important and a highly recommended additional habit to panic attack management. The minimum is 30 minutes of vigorous daily exercise, 5 days a week MINIMUM. It works on the principle of releasing BDNF and serotonin hormones.