Panic attacks when leaving the house

Symptoms of Panic Attacks When Leaving the House

The most prominent symptoms of these attacks include:

1. Rapid heartbeat.
2. Chest pain.
3. Shortness of breath.
4. Feeling of choking.
5. Dizziness.
6. Dry mouth.
7. Chills.
8. Hot flashes.
9. Nausea.
10. Diarrhea.
11. Sweating.
12. Numbness and tingling.

Causes of Agoraphobia

As mentioned above, panic attacks are often linked to agoraphobia. While the exact cause is still unknown, the following factors increase the likelihood of developing it:

• Suffering from depression.
• Having another type of anxiety disorder, such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
• Having a history of abuse, including physical abuse.
• Substance abuse or drug addiction.
• Family history of agoraphobia.

Complications of Agoraphobia

Untreated agoraphobia accompanied by panic attacks can lead to the following complications:

1. Inability to perform activities that require leaving the house, such as many types of sports.
2. Financial issues due to inability to go to work because of fear of panic attacks.
3. Social isolation that can lead to loneliness, increasing the risk of depression.
4. Feelings of anger, frustration, and low self-esteem, which increase the risk of other mental health disorders.
5. Resorting to self-medication or harmful behaviors, such as using tranquilizers without a doctor’s supervision or overeating.

Treatment for Panic Attacks Triggered by Leaving the House

Treatment requires addressing the underlying agoraphobia. Here are the most commonly used treatment approaches:

• Psychotherapy:
  The most effective forms for treating agoraphobia include:
  1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
  2. Exposure Therapy.
• Medication:
  Common drug classes used to treat agoraphobia include:
  1. Antidepressants, especially Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs).
  2. Anti-anxiety medications.
• Self-care strategies:
  Such as:
  1. Meditation practice:
     
     Helps reduce anxiety and prevent panic attacks. Don’t forget to download the Tawazon app, which offers extensive information on different types of meditation along with guided sessions and podcasts.
     
  2. Regular exercise:
     To boost brain chemicals that promote calm, relaxation, and improved mood.