Therefore, it is especially important for a person who suffers from persistent panic attacks to stop drinking alcohol. Studies on panic attacks show that alcohol could possibly become a factor in causing an attack. Most patient reports from doctors also suggest that even though this substance cannot cause an episode, alcohol can make attacks worse.
Drinking alcohol has a huge effect on the body, especially with the brain, kidneys ad liver. The organs mentioned need to work double time just to filter and digest the alcohol. Aside from this, alcohol prevents the body’s peak performance by draining the body’s ability to feel right and calm. It makes the nervous system hyperactive and increases heart rate. It also brings about dehydration.
People who have been drinking alcohol with panic attacks end up feeling more stressed out and anxious for no reason. They experience heightened dizziness, weakness, trembling and sweating especially when intoxicated.
Doctors believe that the link between panic attacks and alcohol is undeniable. This substance can magnify and increase the symptoms of an attack. Regular intake of alcohol can also change the chemistry of ones brain.
Aside from this, panic attacks could be sparked by an increase in bodily stimulation and physiological reactions. Alcohol affects individuals differently, depending on age, size, general state of health and so on.
Some people say that alcohol makes them feel calm, while others become more hyperactive once they have ingested it. It is generally considered a depressant, and research has shown that when it is absorbed by the body, the nervous system functions double time to contradict the depressant properties of alcohol.
Doctors have proposed that there may be a genetic link that acts upon a person’s anxiety level and alcohol consumption. These biological theories indicate that a brain mechanism is responsible for anxiety symptoms and drinking behaviours. Other researchers have advised an expectancy component in alcohol consumption and anxiety symptoms.
Most people think that alcohol is the answer to relieve their panic attack symptoms. But, people with anxiety disorders are more likely to be alcoholics than those without a panic disorder. But, studies have shown that problem drinking is more dominant in certain anxiety disorders, and that typical alcohol use varies between these disorders.
The common misconception is that alcohol can have the opposite side effect on people which can increase their stress. They can lead to withdrawal and have a hangover. Thus, they may experience nausea, vomiting, increase in blood pressure, anxiety and panic attacks.
It is important to remember that self help methods are better ways to cope with an attack rather than alcohol. You can reduce the intensity of the symptoms if you find the right technique. It is very vital that the sufferer of panic attacks should take control of his or her situation.
Deep breathing, doing other activities and seeking advice from friends and family are good options. Warding off alcohol may also be one of the most vital self help tips any person can take. Think of better alternatives to keep yourself busy and calm. In a nutshell, panic attacks and alcohol do not make a good combination, so it is better to be safe than sorry.
Diane Louise Y. Villanueva is an expert in Panic Attacks. For more information on www.stoppanicattackstoday.org/panic-attacks-and-alcohol/“> panic attacks and alcohol, visit www.StopPanicAttacksToday.org/.
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