Do you think that you've had anxiety or panic attacks recently?  Then you'll need to know what the symptoms are so that you can take the necessary steps to stay healthy.  There are basically two steps you can take:
 
·    seek knowledge about anxiety self help
·    seek help from professionals
 
Or if you experience your stress level is exceptionally high, you will need to learn more about anxiety symptoms so that you can cope with your problems before it gets too severe.
 
 
Breathing Difficulties
 
A common anxiety attack symptoms is the sensation of tightness in the chest. If you find it hard to breath or experience difficulties with speaking properly, you might very well be suffering from an anxiety attack. During a situation like this try to sit or lie down, close to an open door or a window if at all possible. This will enable you to get fresh air (more oxygen) which will decrease the contraction of the muscles in your chest as well as lower the temperature of your body.

Digestive Issues
 
Problems with digestion are also common symptoms of anxiety attacks. Problems with swallowing food, loss of appetite or an unsettled stomach are all symptoms of stress. If you experience these symptoms, eating un-processed or foods in their natural state would be a significant part of your anxiety self help efforts by helping you to stop the anxiety symptoms.
 
Eat organic fruits and vegetables instead of canned varieties. Foods like these are free of pesticides; chemicals that many people react negatively to.
 
Discomfort and Pain in Arms and Legs
 
If you experience anxiety frequently or think that you are in the middle of an anxiety attack, you may have a tingling feeling in your hands or feet. If it continues, you may experience pain in your extremities but you can reduce it by regularly muscle stretching and exercising. The prickling is caused by nerve damage, so when you exercise, you will increase your body's circulation.  This way your muscles are strengthened.

Workout will also help your breathing, thus decreasing the odds of having shortness of breath. When you are in extremely stressful situations, consider a jog or run for minimum 30 minutes per day, or build muscle in your extremities by using free weights.
 
Problems with Your Sleeping Pattern
 
 Sleeping disorder is another symptom of anxiety.  This can be lack of sleep as well as too much sleep. Are you waking up several times during the night? Do you sleep continuously for minimum 10 hours? Both could be a sign of anxiety.
                                        
Consult your doctor and ask for sleeping pills that will help you to sleep through the night. You can also try natural remedies.  Go to your local health food store and ask for valerian root or 5-HTP.  At least it's worth to try them Natural remedies like those mentioned above, may play a significant role in your anxiety self help regimen.  What they do is raise your serotonin levels which will increase your ability to handle stress in a more rational way throughout the day.

by Gerd Petersen
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