The Healthy Way

Thursday, August 31, 2006

Panicked about attacks

Q: I'm a 19-year old-female and a month ago I started having really bad panic attacks.

I went to a doctor and he first prescribed Ativan, which wasn't helping, so he prescribed Xanax. I had been taking it for almost three weeks until I read how addictive it is. I stopped taking it two days ago and now think I'm having withdrawal symptoms (anxiety, hot flashes, insomnia, sweating).

I don't want to take any more chemicals and I'm wondering about natural medications that could help me overcome these symptoms and prevent future panic attacks.

Signed, Panicked

A: Dear Panicked: Panic attacks are sudden surges of overwhelming fear that come without warning and without any obvious reason. It is far more intense than having anxiety or the feeling of being "stressed out" that most experience.

We all saw the news about an airplane making an emergency landing last week because a passenger was having a panic attack.

Often panic attacks are brought on by stress. With nutrient and vitamin deficiencies, attacks can become more frequent. Often sensitivity to alcohol or yeast makes it worse. An herbal supplement for calm nerves such as Relora-Plex from Douglas Labs works really well, especially when combined with B Complex supplements.

Homeopathic remedies such as Ignatia, Pulsatilla or Staph. Agria can be useful, but need to be prescribed based on symptoms. Try a formula by Heel such as Nervoheel or Ypsiloheel. Rescue Remedy from Bach Flowers is a good first aid remedy. It will help you get that initial panic feeling under control so that your symptoms don't get out of hand.

Learn relaxation and breathing techniques.

Many would not consider marijuana as having any connection with anxiety and panic. However, marijuana is recognized as being one of the causes.

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Dr. Elena Krasnov is a registered Naturopathic Doctor and Clinic Director of the Toronto Naturopathic Clinic. Submit your questions online here