Panic Attacks

What Are Panic Attacks?
Panic attacks are a manifestation of anxiety. People often experience them as a sudden feeling of fear or terror which can last from minutes to hours. They may come on seemingly for no reason or be triggered by specific events, which can vary from individual to individual. The specific symptoms also vary but can include the following (you don’t have to be experiencing all of them to be having a panic attack):

• Shortness of breath
• Fast heartbeat
• Feeling your heart beating in your chest
• Trembling
• Sweating
• Hot flushes
• Chills
• Nausea
• Feeling like you are choking or there’s something in your throat that you can’t swallow
• Feeling dizzy
• Feeling as if your body isn’t real
• Numbness or tingling
• Chest pain
• Fear of dying
• Fear that you’re “going crazy”
• Fear of losing control

While panic attacks are scary, they are not deadly and they do not make people “go crazy.” However, there is overlap between symptoms of panic attacks and those of some serious illnesses. If you’re experiencing the above symptoms, you should see your naturopathic doctor or medical doctor.

How Do Naturopathic Doctors Treat Panic Attacks?
Your naturopathic doctor might start by teaching you methods of coping with your panic attacks, which can include relaxation exercises and counselling. Several herbs and natural substances are also indicated for the treatment of anxiety and may be prescribed. Your naturopathic doctor may also recommend hydrotherapy, acupuncture or homeopathy or refer you for talk-therapy.

Chris Roberts is a board-certified naturopathic doctor with a focus on preventing and treating anxiety. He is a supervisor at the RSNC and course coordinator of clinical medicine at CCNM.