Definition

Anxiety is a feeling of dread, tension, and unease. An anxiety disorder is when these feelings are more intense than they should be or last for long periods of time. It may also happen even if there is no specific cause. An anxiety disorder also cause problems in day to day life and relationships.

The most common types of anxiety disorders are:

• Specific phobias
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Panic disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Social anxiety disorder
• Generalized anxiety disorder

Anxiety may also occur with other conditions such as alcohol use disorder, drug abuse, or depression.

Causes

The cause of anxiety is not clear. Trauma, regular stress, or genetics may all play a role. They may cause a change in how the brain reacts to stress. Other medical issues and medicine may also play a role.

Risk Factors

Things that may increase the risk of an anxiety disorders are:

• Family member with anxiety disorders
• Stressful life events
• Not having good habits to manage stress or harmful habits to deal with stress
• History of trauma emotional or physical
• Long term medical illness or treatment
• Substance abuse
• History of self-harm as a teenager

Symptoms

An anxiety disorder can cause:

• Worry or dread
• Intrusive or ruminative thoughts
• Sense of imminent danger or catastrophe
• Fear or panic
• Restlessness
• Irritability
• Impatience
• Uncertainty
• Trouble concentrating

It can also cause physical problems such as:

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Chest pain
• Rapid heartbeat
• Sweating (especially the palms)
• Dry mouth
• Flushing or blushing
• Muscle tension
• Shortness of breath
• Feeling lightheaded or fainting
• Difficulty sleeping
• Shaking
• Choking sensation
• Abdominal discomfort
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Feeling of "butterflies" in the stomach
• Sexual problems
• Tingling sensations
• Nail biting or other habitual behavior

Symptoms of Anxiety

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Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. A physical and exam will be done. The doctor will also ask questions about emotional health. It is important to be honest and open with the doctor. Many mental health disorders go untreated because people do not ask for help. An anxiety disorder may be suspected based on answers to these questions.

Other tests may be done if there could be another cause of anxiety. A referral may be made to a mental health professional. They can help to diagnose anxiety disorder or other mental health issues.

Treatment

Anxiety disorders can be managed. Treatment can help to lower the effect on day to day life. The goal is to reduce stress and improve the reaction to it. A treatment plan may include a mix of the following:

Prevention

The cause of anxiety disorders is not clear, so prevention is not know. To decrease the risk of an episode of anxiety:

• Be aware of situations, occupations, and people that cause you stress. Avoid them if you can.
• Find a relaxation technique that works for you. Practice it often.
• Grow and keep a strong social support system.
• Express your emotions when they happen.
• Challenge beliefs and thoughts that are not helpful to you.
• Correct misperceptions. Ask others for their points of view.
• Work with a therapist.
• Avoid nicotine or other drugs. If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation. Moderation is 1 drink or less per day for women and 2 drinks or less per day for men.