Panic Attack - What to Do When You Have a Panic Attack Black Out

If you are a fan of the popular HBO series, The Sopranos, you would have seen many scenes where Tony Soprano blacks out at his office, his car and his home during a panic attack. With the help of extensive therapy, Tony managed to get some relief from his panic attack black outs but he never fully recovered from it.

Panic attacks are very real and they are one of the most misdiagnosed conditions around the globe as their symptoms are very similar to a heart attack. Approximately one-third of all Americans suffer from the symptoms of this attack which include headaches, rapid heart rate, nausea and chest pains.

Celebrities Who Suffer from Panic Attacks

Though there is no scientific proof to show that panic attacks and creativity is linked, creative people and celebrities seem to be more prone to this disorder. Among musicians who suffer from panic attacks include Marie Osmond, Ann Wilson, Barbra Streisand, Cher, Courtney Love and Donny Osmond.

Actors and actresses who suffer from this disorder include Kim Basinger, Howie Mandle, John Candy, Johnny Depp, Sam Shepard, James Garner, Winona Ryder and Cissy Spacek. Even the famous Sir Isaac Newton was a known panic attack sufferer.

What to Do

The first thing that you should do if you get panic attack black outs is to get professional medical help as soon as possible. During a panic attack black out, you lose consciousness and if you are alone, you may awaken suddenly only to have no recollection whatsoever of what happened before you woke up. You may not even recall going to sleep.

How to Prevent Panic Attack Black Outs

The best way to prevent blacking out during an attack is obviously not to have a panic attack at all. Whenever you have an attack, keep a note of when and where it happened. This will help you to identify the triggers of your attacks. For some, it may be sweet beverages and food whereas for others it may be food or drinks that contains caffeine. Sufferers have also indicated that alcohol triggers their attack. Once you have identified what are your triggers, you will be able to reduce the frequency of your attacks.

Teaching yourself some relaxation techniques may also help you prevent a panic attack. Yoga, breathing techniques and tai chi are good at promoting not only a sense of peacefulness within you but also they are good for your overall well being. Hypnotherapy and self hypnosis have also gotten a lot of positive feedback from panic attack sufferers. During self hypnosis, you enter a relaxed state whereby your mind is at peace and free from worries for a duration that you desire. As relaxation and panic attacks are like cats to water, it is impossible for you to get an attack while under hypnosis.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2170923