Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety is a vague, uncomfortable feeling of fear, dread, or danger. Anxiety disorders are a group of psychiatric conditions that involve anxiety. The problem may be real or imaginary. Symptoms can vary in severity and length. There are several types of anxiety: · acute situational anxiety · generalized anxiety disorder ·  panic disorder ·  post-traumatic stress disorder · phobias ·  obsessive compulsive disorders

What is going on in the body?

Everyone feels anxious from time to time. People who are anxious may be worried about things around them. They may have an internal, mental struggle. Sometimes anxiety is so severe it causes a great deal of distress. It can interfere with the ability to function in society. In these cases, an anxiety disorder is said to be present.

What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?

There are several different anxiety disorders. Each has its own symptoms. Examples of physical symptoms include: ·  palpitations, an unusual awareness of the heartbeat · dry mouth · sweating · trembling or shaking ·  shortness of breath or a choking sensation ·  nausea ·  dizziness ·  chest pain ·  insomnia, inability to sleep well

Examples of mental symptoms include: · fear of dying or going crazy · fear of leaving the house · fear of crowds · difficulty concentrating · irritability · restlessness · fear of contamination or germs · constantly worrying about life · having the same thoughts over and over again · memory problems

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

Anxiety disorders are not caused by other medical conditions. It is not known why some people are more anxious than others. The feeling of anxiety is caused by the body's defense mechanisms. This is called fight or flight. The body makes adrenaline, which causes the symptoms.

What can be done to prevent the condition?

To help prevent anxiety a person can: · figure out what is causing the anxiety, and deal directly with it · consider lifestyle changes to reduce stress · learn relaxation techniques

How is the condition diagnosed?

An anxiety disorder is diagnosed when the anxiety becomes severe. The person has problems with relationships or work because of anxiety. A history and physical exam should be done to rule other medical conditions that may cause symptoms of anxiety.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

Anxiety is often linked to depression. It can cause problems in a person's work and social life.

What are the risks to others?

 

Anxiety disorders are not contagious.

What are the treatments for the condition?

Treatment generally include medications and psychotherapy.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Some medications can cause sleeping and sexual problems. Others can cause sleepiness.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

Many people return to their daily activities after treatment. Medication is often given for a long time.

How is the condition monitored?

The person monitors their symptoms and reports them to the healthcare provider. A medication may need to be changed so it works better or to decrease side effects.

Related to Anxiety Disorders

Peripheral Neuropathy Symptoms
Peripheral neuropathy is a loss of function in the peripheral nerves. These are the nerves that branch out from the brain and spinal cord. What is going on in the body? Peripheral neuropathy occurs...

Flu Vaccine Symptoms
The flu vaccine involves the injection of inactivated viruses to protect against influenza, commonly known as the flu. What is the information for this topic? There are 3 types of influenza A, B, a...

Peritonitis Symptoms
Peritonitis is inflammation of the peritoneum, the thin membrane that lines the inside of the abdominal cavity. What is going on in the body? The peritoneum can become inflamed for various reasons....

Dyshidrotic Eczema Treatments
Dyshidrotic eczema is a fiercely itchy, deep-seated, blistering rash. It is seen most often on the palms of the hands, sides of the fingers, and soles of the feet. What is going on in the body? was...

Frozen Shoulder Treatments
Frozen shoulder usually occurs after a person injures the shoulder and does not move it for a period of time because of pain. What is going on in the body? When the shoulder is immobilized by pain,...

Talk about Anxiety Disorders

Print Diseases and Disorders