Anxiety and panic disorders affect over 4 million adult Americans each year, and most people experience a combination of physical and emotional symptoms. In some people, the physical symptoms can be so severe that they lead to constant panic attacks and other problems. Physical symptoms can occur suddenly, or be a part of the person's lifestyle if the anxiety disorder has been prevalent for an extended period of time.
It is important to uncover the physical symptoms a person is experiencing since this information would reveal the type of anxiety disorder present and can be used for treatment. Doctors will often ask sufferers to monitor when their symptoms appear. This would pinpoint the cause of the symptoms and help in formulating the right treatment.
Anxiety disorder often causes depression and other problems which can lead to a cycle of other physical symptoms. Below are the most usual physical symptoms associated with anxiety disorders.
1. Stomach upset or nausea. Many people who have an anxiety disorder feel nauseous after a meal, or at various intervals throughout the day. This gastrointestinal disturbance is often associated with the central nervous system being out of balance.
2. Headaches or migraines. Constant tension and worry can take its toll physically in the form of headaches or migraines. People suffering from anxiety disorders often experience frequent headaches or intense migraines that can be crippling.
3. Difficulty Breathing. The fear caused by panic attacks often leaves the sufferer short of breath. As a side effect, the sufferer may also find it hard to concentrate and may even experience chest pains.
4. Insomnia. Anxiety often keeps people awake at night and prevents them from relaxing. These symptoms can be remedied with lifestyle modification, dietary change and supplementation or medication.
5. Gastro-intestinal problems. Diarrhea and constipation can also be related to anxiety disorders. People who experience these symptoms may need to ensure that they are eating the right types of food to remedy these negative effects.
6. Extreme sweating. The stress produced by anxiety usually causes one's heart rate and blood pressure to increase. This may also cause a person to sweat excessively, even on a normal situation.
7. Muscle spasms. Sufferers may experience involuntary muscle spasms or tremors. This can be a further cause of anxiety, especially if they happen in public.
There are several physical symptoms associated with anxiety disorders, and recognizing them is the first step towards finding an effective treatment. Most people can overcome their anxiety problems with a combination of therapy, natural treatments, lifestyle changes and/or medication.
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