Women Are More Prone to Panic Attacks

More and more studies bring out an alarming fact for women all over the world: women are more prone to panic attacks than men. According to the same studies women have twice more chances to suffer from this condition than their male counterparts.  The reasons for this disproportionate spread of panic attacks is not very clear, yet it is assumed that this has to do with the major changes from a woman’s life, such as getting married, having a baby or menopause.

What influences Panic Attacks?

Physical diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, migraines and depressions also seem to have a great influence on the development of panic attacks and panic disorders. If we take into consideration the fact that three quarters of the people suffering from migraines are women, it is easily to account for the big number of women who have to face panic attacks.

During menstruation and menopausal periods, women are more likely to experience panic attacks. During these periods hormonal changes take place in a women’s body. The fluctuation of estrogen and progesterone may have serious effects on a woman’s appetite and on her level of energy. This causes inconveniences for the woman, whose well-being and overall mood is affected. If we add to this the discomfort created by heavy bleeding and the pain caused by the intense cramps it will be easy to understand why these periods are very difficult in a woman’s life and may lead to the development of panic attacks.

How Can Panic Attack Be Prevented?

The good thing about panic attacks is that they can be both avoided and treated (where necessary). In order to prevent panic attacks and the anxiety provoked by migraines and menstruation women should do a habit out of making exercises daily and of having a healthy diet, which includes a lot of fruit and vegetables.

Exclude from your diet the alcohol as well as the products which contain caffeine, because these substances increase the risk of having a panic attack and worsen the symptoms of it. Smoking should also be stopped, or at least limited.

It is also recommended that they spend more time relaxing, either sleeping or spending few moments with family and friends. This will raise their spirits and bring the positive thinking back. In addition to this sleep is a good remedy for migraines.

In order to calm down it is advisable to keep a diary, in which to write down all the thoughts and emotions you feel during the day. This way you free yourself from the negative energy and have the opportunity to read it in the future and see your progress. When you are anxious you can try to meditate or do breathing exercises which will help you calm down.

However, if the feelings you have are too strong and you cannot cope with the situation, it is best to seek specialized help. The doctor will prescribe the right medication and type of therapy, taking into consideration your needs. This way you will not find it hard to be a woman, any more!