The Connection Between a Panic Attack and Alcohol
There are many known causes of panic attacks, and alcohol is by far one of the most serious. The connection between a panic attack and alcohol is one that needs to be taken very seriously, and this means gaining a better understanding on what panic attacks actually are first.
Panic Attacks
Panic attacks are quite common, and most people who experience panic attacks are classified as having panic disorder, which is a condition that is characterized by chronic, repeated and unexpected panic attacks. There are certain symptoms that are usually experienced at the onset of a panic attack, including chest pains, racing or pounding heartbeat, difficulty breathing, hot flashes or chills, dreamlike sensations, dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, and even the feeling of impending doom or death.
Panic Attack and Alcohol
The link between a panic attack and alcohol is one that is very tricky. This is because often time alcohol can be a trigger for panic and anxiety, whereas in other cases people use alcohol to treat anxiety. Some people will go out drinking and the wake up in the middle of the night after they get home with a panic attack, while others only feel calm and relaxed after they have been drinking.
The connection between a panic attack and alcohol can often get quite serious in the latter case however, because these people tend to use alcohol as a crutch and possibly even become an alcoholic.
Talk to Your Doctor for More Information
It is very important that anyone suffering from panic disorder whether or not panic attack and alcohol is a problem keep in close contact with their doctor. It is important that they work together with their doctor and allow them to keep a watchful eye and make sure that the proper improvement is being made.
Panic disorder can be treated and sufferers can get back to feeling like their regular old self once again, but it can definitely be a long and difficult process. People suffering from this disorder often feel helpless and as though there is nothing that can be done to make them better but this is absolutely untrue and there are actually many different and effective treatment methods available.
It is also important that you avoid the triggers that aggravate your condition. And, this means learning about the root causes of your panic disorder so you can avoid them as much as possible until of course you have dealt with your condition.
