View source for Panic Attacks - Female

== What Does It Mean? ==
A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear that activates the body's stress response, even in the absence of a real threat. These episodes can be linked to neurotransmitter imbalances, adrenal dysfunction, oxidative stress, and metabolic instability. Women may experience panic attacks more frequently due to hormonal fluctuations, nutrient deficiencies, and heightened stress responses. Functional medicine focuses on addressing the root causes by balancing stress hormones, optimizing neurotransmitter function, and reducing systemic inflammation.

== How Did We Get There? ==

=== Root Causes ===

* Neurotransmitter Imbalances – Low levels of GABA, serotonin, or dopamine contribute to increased excitatory activity and anxiety.
* Adrenal Dysfunction & Cortisol Dysregulation – Chronic stress can lead to excessive or depleted cortisol levels, impairing the body's ability to manage stress.
* Oxidative Stress & Inflammation – Increased free radicals contribute to neuroinflammation, disrupting emotional regulation.
* Hormonal Imbalances (Estrogen & Progesterone) – Fluctuations in female hormones can exacerbate panic symptoms, especially during PMS, pregnancy, or menopause.
* Electrolyte & Nutrient Deficiencies – Magnesium and B-vitamin deficiencies can contribute to nervous system instability.
* Post-Vaccine Immune Response – Immune dysregulation may trigger systemic inflammation affecting neurological function.

=== Signs & Symptoms ===

* Sudden onset of extreme fear or discomfort
* Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia) and palpitations
* Shortness of breath or hyperventilation
* Dizziness, nausea, or lightheadedness
* Chest tightness or discomfort
* Excessive sweating and temperature dysregulation
* Feeling of detachment, loss of control, or impending doom
* Increased symptoms during hormonal fluctuations (menstrual cycle, perimenopause)

=== Diagnostic Criteria ===
Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms.

== How Do We Treat It? ==

=== Functional Medicine Approach ===
The treatment approach focuses on stabilizing the nervous system, regulating adrenal function, balancing female hormones, and optimizing neurotransmitter production.

=== Supplement Protocol ===
{| class="wikitable"
|'''Supplement'''
|'''Function'''
|'''Dosage & Frequency'''
|-
|Advanced Vita-Biotic R
|Supports gut-brain axis function, enhancing neurotransmitter stability.
|1 capsule with food daily
|-
|Endura
|Provides essential electrolytes and B vitamins to support hydration and neurological function.
|1 packet with or without food, three times daily
|-
|D-Mannose Powder
|Supports immune health and gut stability, reducing inflammation-driven anxiety.
|1 tsp of powder with food, twice daily
|-
|Vita Microbe
|Enhances microbial balance to support neurotransmitter production and emotional regulation.
|3  capsules with or without food, daily
|-
|Vita Buffered C Powder
|Reduces oxidative stress and supports adrenal function.
|¼  scoop of powder with food, twice daily
|-
|Vita-Biotic
|Provides micronutrient support for nervous system health and cognitive function.
|1 capsule without food, daily
|-
|Vita-Candid
|Supports microbial balance, helping reduce gut-induced neurological symptoms.
|2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily
|-
|Vita-Digestyzyme
|Aids digestion, ensuring proper nutrient absorption to support nervous system function.
|2 capsule 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily 
|-
|V-Pax
|Supports mitochondrial energy, stress resilience, and neurotransmitter stability.
|2  capsules with food, twice daily
|-
|Vita B Methyl
|Provides essential methylated B vitamins for neurotransmitter production and stress modulation.
|1 capsule without food, daily
|-
|Magnesium
|Supports neuromuscular relaxation and nervous system stability.
|2 capsule with or without food, daily
|-
|V-Inflamma
|Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, protecting neurological function.
|1 capsule without food, daily
|-
|Vita-Omega
|Supplies essential fatty acids to support brain and nervous system health.
|2 capsules with food, daily 
|-
|Vita Defense
|Enhances immune resilience to counteract stress-induced inflammation.
|1 capsule without food, daily
|-
|Vita-Glutathione
|Acts as a master antioxidant to reduce oxidative stress and support brain health.
|1 capsule with or without food, daily
|-
|Vita DIM
|Supports hormone balance, helping mitigate stress-related estrogen dominance.
|2 capsules with or without food,  daily
|-
|SBI Powder
|Strengthens gut barrier function to reduce systemic inflammation and improve stress resilience.
|1 scoop of powder in cold liquids without food, daily
|-
|Gluta Protect
|Provides antioxidant protection to enhance cellular and neurological function.
|1 scoop of powder without food,  daily
|-
|V-Collagen
|Supports gut lining repair and improves overall cellular integrity.
|1 scoop of powder without food, daily
|-
|Vita-Flux
|Enhances circulation and oxygenation to support brain function and stress recovery.
|2 capsules 20-30 minutes  prior to food, twice  daily
|}

=== Additional Lifestyle Interventions: ===

* Neurological Support – Implement meditation, breathwork, and progressive muscle relaxation to regulate the autonomic nervous system.
* Dietary Optimization – Avoid stimulants (e.g., caffeine, alcohol) and focus on anti-inflammatory, nutrient-dense foods. 
* Hormone Balancing Strategies – Support estrogen and progesterone balance through diet, lifestyle, and targeted supplementation.
* Hydration & Electrolyte Balance – Ensure adequate hydration and mineral intake to support nervous system function.
* Physical Activity & Stress Reduction – Engage in gentle movement such as yoga or Tai Chi to regulate cortisol levels.