How to Cure Panic Attacks: Is There a Panic Attack Cure?

Numerous research studies have examined how to cure panic attacks and whether any effective natural remedies exist for use as a preventative or cure. There are many alternative and complementary therapies available for people to use in reducing the frequency of panic attacks or preventing them. Many people overcome their propensity to have attacks by judiciously practicing these panic attack treatments and techniques and living healthy lifestyles. You may find biofeedback, relaxation practices, or certain nutritional supplements helpful in combating your attacks.

Cure Panic Attacks Using Proven Techniques

Studies have identified many techniques that may help to cure panic attacks, but point to two in particular, as having great potential for treating them naturally. According to the famed Mayo Clinic in Minneapolis, Minnesota, research has concluded that two alternative therapies have promise as treatments for panic attacks.

One possible treatment is relaxation training. This includes Progressive Muscle Relaxation, meditation, Yoga, and deep breathing techniques. Mindfulness and visualization also qualify as relaxation techniques and many people have found them highly effective in helping them cure panic attacks.

The other is a nutritional supplement called inositol. Inositol is found in highest concentrations in the brain, heart, and lens of the eye, but it is present in all body tissues. Part of the B-vitamin complex, and sometimes referred to as B8, the body needs this vitamin daily, but in small amounts. It's not officially recognized as a vitamin because intestinal bacteria can synthesize it from glucose. Studies indicate that the oral supplement influences the action of serotonin, a brain neurotransmitter, and thus may reduce panic attack frequency and severity.

Other Possible Cures for Panic Attacks

Some research shows that practicing a diet designed for stress management as one of many promising cures for panic attacks. Think about it. When you haven't eaten enough, or if you've eaten unhealthy foods all day long, you may feel on edge, cranky, and less in control of your emotions. This puts you in the position of vulnerability regarding panic attacks.

Comfort foods, such as a bowl of freshly made, warm oatmeal can actually raise the levels of serotonin in the brain. Medications prescribed for panic attacks, like fluoxetine (Prozac®) or paroxetine (Paxil®) inhibit the brain's ability to take up serotonin after it has been released. Why not accomplish this by eating a delicious bowl of oatmeal rather than taking medicine? (Of course, you should never stop taking prescribed medications without first consulting your doctor.)

Complex carbohydrates, such as whole grain breads and pastas offer another serotonin-boosting food group. Not only do these foods boost serotonin levels, they also stabilize blood glucose, helping you avoid those sugar-induced highs and lows.

Oranges, spinach, and fatty fish also stabilize your mood by boosting serotonin levels. Fatty fish contains Omega-3 fatty acids, known to protect against heart disease and to alleviate symptoms of mood disorders. Other healthy foods that may help include: pistachio nuts, fresh fruits and vegetables, almonds, and low fat milk. Eating a low-fat, low calorie bedtime snack can keep your blood glucose level stable until morning as well. Try having a piece of whole grain toast with a small amount of butter and strawberry jam about 30 minutes before bedtime.

Diet alone can't work as a panic attack cure, but coupled with relaxation techniques and panic attack therapy, you'll feel better physically and mentally, which certainly will help you cope more effectively with anxieties and environmental stressors.

Biofeedback represents another avenue you can try in your search for a panic attack cure. Biofeedback uses sensors that measure heart rate, breathing, and other physiological markers of stress. The therapist or technician, trained in biofeedback work, will then teach you to control your body's response to stressors that trigger the hyperventilating and intense fears associated with panic attack. You'll learn new ways of thinking about the triggers and how to relax in response to them, rather than allowing them to control your life.

Additional Panic Attack Information

• Panic Attack Treatment: Panic Attack Therapy and Medication
• How to Deal with Panic Attacks: Panic Attack Self-Help
• How to Stop Panic Attacks and Prevent Panic Attacks

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