Panic attacks are a health problem often associated with panic disorder. The American Psychological Association says approximately one in every 75 people might develop a panic disorder. Panic attacks usually first occur in your teen years or in your early 20s, are commonly associated with major life transitions and might be debilitating in some individuals. Nutritional therapy is an important part of a well-rounded panic-attack treatment plan. Ask your doctor if nutritional treatments are appropriate for you and your condition.
The Basics
Numerous symptoms are associated with panic attacks. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, some of the most common symptoms associated with panic attacks include extreme fearfulness, feelings of impending doom, elevated heart rate, dizziness, trembling, sensations of unreality an intense fear of dying or losing your mind, and dyspnea, or shortness of breath. The academy says more than 3 million Americans will develop a panic disorder at some point during their lives.
Nutritional Therapy
Nutritional therapies, especially herbal and nonherbal nutritional supplements, have long been used to help reduce the severity and frequency of your panic attacks. Among the most helpful nutritional supplements in treating your panic attacks, says naturopathic physician William Mitchell, author of "Plant Medicine in Practice," is ginger. Other effective supplements might include kava kava, melatonin, passionflower, GABA, skullcap, essential fatty acids and St. John's wort. More clinical research evidence might be required to validate these supplements' purported health effects.
Effective Nutritional Supplement
Passionflower might be one of the most effective nutritional supplements in treating your panic attacks. According to herbalist Ed Smith, author of "Therapeutic Herb Manual," passionflower is both a calming, sedative and antispasmodic supplement. This nutritional supplement traditionally has been used in treating many health problems, including panic attacks, drug addiction, insomnia, nightmares, nervousness, elevated blood pressure, restlessness, muscular twitching, heart palpitations and stress-related disorders. If you are pregnant, you should not use this nutritional supplement.
Considerations
Panic attacks are a serious health problem, and they can significantly affect the immediate and long-term behavior patterns of your child or adolescent. If you or your child suffers from panic attacks, do not delay in scheduling an appointment with your family physician. Many possible treatments exist for this condition, including nutritional supplementation. Before using nutritional supplements to help reduce the intensity of your panic attacks, review proper dosage and treatment duration with your doctor.
References
- American Psychological Association: Answers to Your Questions About Panic Disorder
- American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry: Panic Disorder In Children And Adolescents
- "Plant Medicine in Practice"; William Mitchell; 2003
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Ed Smith; 2007
