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Answers to patient questions

• Panic attacks
  Hello I had yesterday a panic attack and today another one after eating , maybe is my digestion problem or maybe I need to see an orl ( because I can’t breath properly for 15 min ) what I should do please ?

  • I'm sorry to hear you're experiencing panic attacks; they can be overwhelming and frightening. While they often feel linked to physical sensations like digestion issues or breathing difficulties these symptoms can also be part of the panic attack itself. Panic attacks can cause a range of intense physical sensations, including chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and feelings of choking, which might mimic other conditions.
    
    It’s good that you’re considering different factors. If the sensation of not being able to breathe properly persists or feels unrelated to the panic attacks, consulting an otolaryngologist (ORL) could hel...p rule out any underlying respiratory issues. Similarly, if you suspect digestion problems, it may be worth seeing a gastroenterologist to check if there's anything contributing to your discomfort during or after eating.
    
    At the same time, panic attacks often stem from anxiety, and addressing the psychological aspect is crucial. Consider consulting a mental health professional who can help you identify triggers, manage your anxiety, and reduce the frequency of panic attacks. Techniques like breathing exercises, grounding methods, or mindfulness can be effective in managing the immediate sensations of a panic attack.
    
    You’re taking the right step by exploring both physical and emotional causes. If you feel unsure, you could start with a general practitioner who can guide you toward the appropriate specialists and help differentiate between physical and psychological factors. Read more

    

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• Anxiety and Stress
  Recently, I've been having difficulty sleeping and feeling anxious. Can I speak with a doctor about this?

  • Certainly. Many people experience difficulty sleeping and increased anxiety, and these can often be interconnected. Speaking with a psychologist or mental health professional can be beneficial for understanding the root causes and developing strategies to manage both the anxiety and the sleep disturbances. Often, we look at lifestyle patterns, stressors, and thought processes that may be contributing. Additionally, cognitive-behavioral techniques are quite effective for managing anxiety and improving sleep quality. Starting with a conversation with a mental health professional can be a helpful first step to explore options tailored to your si...tuation. Read more

    

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• General topics
  Are there any psychologist that treat OCD (trichotillomania) on this website?

  • Certainly. It sounds like you're seeking a mental health professional with specialized experience in treating OCD and trichotillomania, and there are effective therapies specifically designed for these conditions. Many psychologists who treat OCD use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), particularly with a method called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). ERP helps individuals confront triggers for compulsions and gradually learn to resist responding to them. For trichotillomania, Habit Reversal Training (HRT) is a widely recognized approach. HRT teaches clients to be more aware of their urges and to develop alternative behaviors to re...place hair-pulling.
    
    In addition, some psychologists may integrate techniques from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). DBT can be valuable for managing intense emotions that may trigger compulsive behaviors, while ACT helps individuals observe their thoughts and urges without acting on them, which can be beneficial for OCD and body-focused repetitive behaviors like trichotillomania. Seeking a therapist with experience in anxiety, OCD, or body-focused repetitive behaviors may be beneficial, and organizations such as the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) and the TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors have directories to assist in finding specialists. Consulting with a psychiatrist may also be useful if you are interested in medication as part of the treatment approach. Read more

    

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