Therapy can also include having the person imagine the feared situation. For example, a patient who is afraid of the confines of an MRI imaging tube is advised to practice relaxing for a few weeks, if possible, before the test is done. About 15-20 minutes each day is spent lying still and envisioning himself in the tube. Then he practices relaxation and breathing techniques and thinks of a pleasant scenario. It takes hard work and perseverance, but a patient can develop a remarkable capacity to relax.
Treatment often includes the use of medication.
People with these afflictions often feel hopeless. It's very hard on the self-esteem. Beta-blockers are also used to suppress the physical manifestations of a panic attack, such as tachycardia and tremors, Swigar explains, adding that they're particularly useful if a person can anticipate the attack. A patient can't eat cheese, drink beer or wine. Swigar adds that drugs, such as narcotics and decongestants cannot be taken along with MAOs.