Many people with panic disorder believe they are experiencing a heart attack during their first panic episode. Panic disorder is a medical condition with symptoms similar to that of a heart attack. Symptoms include chest pain, shortening of breath, dizziness, trembling and a sense of impending death. It is a very traumatic experience and effective treatment is available. People can develop panic from an anxiety disorder, which is a similar condition but less severe. Some studies show that magnesium may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety. Talk to your physician about using magnesium.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral needed for all the organs in the body. It is vital for the heart, kidney and muscles. It is vital for energy production and regulating nutrients in the body such as calcium, potassium and vitamin D. Magnesium is rich in a variety of food sources including green vegetables, nuts and whole grain. The University of Maryland Medical Center says magnesium deficiency is rare but can be caused by a gastrointestinal disease. Magnesium deficiency symptoms include agitation and anxiety.
Magnesium for Panic & Anxiety Disorder
The author of "The Canadian Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine," Sherry Torkos says magnesium promotes relaxation and calmness, which reduces anxiety. Torkos recommends a dosage of 200 mg three times a day. Combine calcium with magnesium on a 2:1 ratio if you experience loose stools from the magnesium supplements. Authors of the "Food-Mood Solution," report that a lack of magnesium increases blood levels of lactate, which causes anxiety. There is no evidence suggesting magnesium treats panic and anxiety disorder when there is no magnesium deficiency. Magnesium cannot replace standard treatments for panic and anxiety disorder; consult a doctor for magnesium deficiency screening before considering use.
Other Supplements
Torkos says herbs such as valerian, relora and passionflower have relaxing and calming properties that help reduce panic and anxiety symptoms. Vitamin B complex and folic acid produce chemicals needed for effective brain function, this may relief anxiety symptoms when vitamin deficiency is present. Consult a doctor before using supplements to make sure they are safe and do not react negatively to your medication.
Breathing Techniques & Treatment
Breathing techniques can help stop an imminent anxiety or panic attack. When feelings of anxiety are present, sit in a quiet place; then slowly inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth; while breathing in, expand your stomach and hold your breath for a few seconds then release. Do this for several minutes until the panic subsides. Standard medication for panic and anxiety are antidepressants and benzodiazepine. Talk therapy alone helps reduce symptoms in some patients. Anxiety disorder needs medical attention; do not attempt to treat symptoms on your own. Consult a doctor for treatment options and physical and psychological evaluation for an accurate diagnosis.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder
- MayoClinic.com: Generalized Anxiety Disorder
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Magnesium
- "The Canadian Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine"; Sherry Torkos; 2007
- "The Food-Mood Solution: All-Natural Ways to Banish Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Stress, Overeating, and Alcohol and Drug Problems--and Feel Good Again"; Jack Challem, et al.; 2007
