Can antihistamines cause panic attacks?

Are you tired of feeling like you’re having a heart attack after taking your allergy medication? Do you dread that moment when the worst side-effects hit, leaving you gasping for breath and battling overwhelming feelings of anxiety and panic? Fear not! Today we tackle the age-old question: “Can antihistamines cause panic attacks?”

What are Antihistamines?

Let’s start with some basic science-y stuff. Antihistamines are drugs used to treat allergic reactions by blocking histamine receptors in the body. Histamine is produced by cells called mast cells in response to foreign substances or irritants like pollen, dust mites or pet dander.

Antihistamines come in different forms such as oral tablets, nasal sprays, eye drops and creams that moisturize itchy skin; these drugs have been around since the 1940s so maybe your grandma took them too!

So why do they sometimes induce anxiety/panic symptoms?

Now here comes the kicker. Most antihistamines available today have sedative effects because they affect neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) that help regulate our central nervous system – which controls our brain activity.

When histamine levels drop through use of an antihistamine drug, your nervous system might overreact causing various uncomfortable sensations such as:

  • Rapid heart rate
  • Dizziness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dry mouth
  • Tingling hands/feet
  • And others

These symptoms could trigger anxiety-depression episodes between individuals who are vulnerable to depressive disorders.

Here’s where some other fancy words come into play- Genetics matter most!: You see, some people may be genetically predisposed to experience adverse psychological effects from medications including but not limited to a class called ‘Histamine H1 Receptor Blockers.’

Common antihistamines such as cetirizine, loratadine and fexofenadine fall into this class of antihistamines if you want to double-check your medication. However, not everyone who takes them experiences panic attacks or anxiety.

How can I cope with these reactions?

Before throwing out the box of medicine from the window, you may want to reconsider. If symptoms occur, first and foremost let one’s physician know what is going on; they might run some tests, or refer you to a psychological specialist in treating mental health issues related mood disorders/sensations you’re living with.

Some concrete steps that could help alleviate any severe feelings include:

  • Deep breathing exercises
  • Progressive muscle relaxation techniques
  • Imagery training
  • Positive self-talks (i.e., acknowledging it’s just a reaction)

A recent study indicates mindfulness-based interventions are significantly beneficial for people experiencing respiratory allergies, which frequently accompany chronic panic attacks induced by histamine blockage.

In conclusion, while antihistamines have been known mostly for their usefulness in allergic treatment plans especially during certain seasonal periods – it’s also good knowing upfront of those possible psychological effects that occur when taking them (note: not everyone will experience). Don’t be discouraged! Engage your physician and acknowledge/track physically how you’re feeling after taking medications along with any pre-existing condition(s) history. There are several intervention options available that could help control the sensations better than avoiding needed Medications entirely!

As always – It never hurts to have more tools at our fingertips 🙂

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