Nocturnal Panic Attacks Treatment

Half of panic disorder sufferers require nocturnal panic attacks treatment. Statistics reveal that only 1 in 10 of attacks occur during the night, yet most sufferers are more concerned about these. Night attacks can be a little more difficult to diagnose since they can be mistaken for other reasons. One misconception is that attacks are awakenings from bad dreams. Although nightmares can create feelings of fright and anxiety they are not the same.

A person might awaken in sweats, with extreme fear and pounding heart. Nightmares are distinguishable in most cases because the person is usually able to recollect memories. There are other possible reasons that do not warrant nighttime panic attacks treatment but may require medical attention. Underlying medical problems such as respiratory diseases and cardiovascular disease may trigger night attacks. Sleep apnea is perhaps the most common disorder that causes mistaken panic attacks.

Although not dissimilar in symptoms, sleep related night disturbances do not cause the intense and frightening anxiety symptoms related to an anxiety disorder. The precise reasons for panic disorder are not known, however there are recognized causes for panic disorder. Panic disorder has been found to be genetic and can be passed down to family members. However, panic disorder can also develop as a learnt behavior and response.

People with panic disorder have an unusually sensitive sympathetic nervous system which reacts to stress and anxiety easily. Panic attacks treatment such as behavioral therapy help rewire a person's perceptions of their fears and phobias. This is done through reconditioning of behaviors and habits and gradual controlled exposure to fears.

Panic attacks treatment can help reduce both daytime and night time occurrences. Although night attacks are less frequent for sufferers, they are generally much more disturbing and frightening. Imagine suddenly being awoken by the sound of your fire alarm going off and waking up with extreme feelings of dread and fear. Being suddenly jolted into consciousness in the middle of the dark night, with a racing heart is enough to put anyone at unease.

However in most instances it can be much worse. Sufferers report of encountering what feel like near death experiences. Severe anxiety sensations can occur such as depersonalization and feelings of going crazy. The seemingly randomness of attacks can make sufferers feel anxious and fearful about going to sleep. As well as therapy and medication sufferers can employ some self help methods to reduce the occurrence of panic attacks.

Most sufferers have a constant flow of stress hormones in the body that increases physical stress symptoms such as tension and agitation. Relaxation techniques and stress reducing techniques such as meditation and EFT can help immensely. A natural proven way to relax and reduce tension is through regular exercise. In addition, preparing for bedtime and having a pre-ritual such as relaxing, taking a bath and having a calming beverage before sleep can ease tension and anxiety.

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