Anyone who has experienced anxiety attacks can attest that the condition can be very debilitating. Shortness of breath, palpitations, numbness, nausea, and feeling trapped are all part of an anxiety attack. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent an attack, the first of which is to determine its cause.
What causes an anxiety attack?
Anxiety attacks can be triggered by a number of reasons, including illness, social events, or even memories of past situations. It is very important to know what situations trigger your attacks so that you can take precautions to control them more easily. For example, if attending social events like a company party triggers an attack, bring a friend to help you feel comfortable about the situation. Most importantly, consult your doctor for medications or therapies that can help reduce your anxiety.
Preventing Anxiety Attacks
There are several methods or activities you can use to reduce your attacks or prevent them from happening, such as the following:
- Change your diet friends
People who switched to a more vegetable- or whole-grain diet with red meat felt better than those who ate red meat. Scientific research shows that in addition to keeping the body healthy, vegetables and whole grains release endorphins and other feel-good hormones in the body that help promote feelings of happiness. On the other hand, red meat eaters have more stress hormones in the body that can trigger an attack.
- Avoid substances with a lot of caffeine and alcohol
Caffeine and alcohol can increase the risk of stroke as well as some medications. Instead of drinking coffee or alcoholic beverages to quickly choose for yourself, try replacing them with fresh juice. Juices are healthy options that can give you a quick energy boost like caffeine without the risk of triggering a bout.
- Exercise regularly
Exercise and physical activity trigger the release of endorphins in the body, which promote feelings of well-being. Besides this benefit, exercise, especially cardiovascular activities, also prevents seizures by providing an outlet to release stress and anxiety. Cardio exercises also strengthen the heart and body so that they can more easily withstand attacks with minimal symptoms.
- Practice relaxation methods
Certain activities such as meditation, yoga, aromatherapy and massage can reduce anxiety and stress levels in the body. They can also help you focus on good feelings and feelings that can improve your sense of well-being. You can try carrying relaxing aromatherapy oils like lavender and chamomile for soothing breaths when you feel a pain coming on. Listening to soothing music, reading inspirational books or drinking herbal tea can also calm your tired nerves.
While these preventative tips can help you avoid an anxiety attack, there's nothing better than talking to your doctor. A health care professional who specializes in anxiety disorders can help you understand your condition and recommend treatment. In addition to prescribed medications, you can also ask your doctor about group therapy for anxiety disorders.