Anxiety

Anxiety is a state of apprehension, tension, and uneasiness in response to a perceived threat. It is considered normal, when it is temporary during a stressful or uncertain situation. Prolonged, intense, or inappropriate periods of Anxiety may indicate an Anxiety disorder. See also: Generalized Anxiety Disorder.

Causes

Anxiety may result from many factors including:
  • Appropriate response under stressful circumstances
  • Drugs that affect the nervous system, such as:
  • Caffeine
  • Alcohol
  • Cocaine
  • Antidepressants
  • Nicotine
  • Amphetamines
  • Biological factors:
  • Brain chemistry imbalances
  • Personality traits
  • Faulty perceptions and irrational beliefs (e.g. phobias)
  • Unresolved emotional conflicts

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
  • Sex: female
  • Family member with anxiety disorders
  • Stressful life events
  • Ineffective coping strategies
  • History of physical or psychological trauma

Symptoms

Anxiety has psychological and physical symptoms.

Psychological symptoms may include:
  • Worry or dread
  • Obsessive or intrusive thoughts
  • Sense of imminent danger or catastrophe
  • Fear or panic
  • Restlessness
  • Irritability
  • Impatience
  • Ambivalence
  • Trouble concentrating
Physical symptoms may include:
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Sweating, especially the palms
  • Dry mouth
  • Flushing or blushing
  • Muscle tension
  • Shortness of breath
  • Lightheadedness or faintness
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Shaking
  • Choking sensation
  • Frequent urination
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Feeling of \"butterflies\" in the stomach
  • Sexual difficulties
  • Tingling sensations
  • Nail biting or other habitual behavior

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. You will be given a psychiatric evaluation. Your doctor may also perform a physical exam and diagnostic tests. Usually the results of these tests are normal. You may be referred to a psychotherapist for further evaluation.

Treatment

Effective treatment usually involves a combination of interventions, including:

Lifestyle Changes
  • Get sufficient rest and sleep.
  • Avoid tobacco.
  • Drink alcohol in moderation.
  • Give up illicit drugs.
  • Reduce exposure to stressful environments.
  • Exercise regularly.
Relaxation Techniques
  • Deep breathing
  • Meditation
  • Deep muscle relaxation
  • Massage
  • Engaging in pleasurable activities
Social Support
  • Strong support system of family and friends
  • Counseling to improve coping skills
  • Support groups
Psychotherapy
  • Addresses thoughts, feelings and behaviors that play a role in anxiety
  • Helps you work through unresolved psychological trauma and conflict
Medication For severe anxiety or anxiety disorder, medications may include:
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Buspirone
  • Tricyclic antidepressants
  • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors

Prevention

To help prevent Anxiety consider taking the following steps:
  • Avoid situations, occupations, and people that cause you stress.
  • If unavoidable, confront and overcome situations that provoke anxiety.
  • Find a relaxation technique that works for you and use it regularly.
  • Develop and maintain a strong social support system.
  • Express your emotions when they happen.
  • Challenge irrational beliefs and counterproductive thoughts.
  • Correct misperceptions; ask others for their views.
  • Work with a psychotherapist or marriage and family counselor.
  • Avoid using nicotine or other drugs, and drink alcohol in moderation.