September 14, 2009

Physical Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are often accompanied by a combination of emotional and physical symptoms. The physical symptoms are sometimes severe that it often leads to regular panic attacks and other negative problems. These physical symptoms can occur suddenly and last for a short time. Other symptoms can be a regular part of a person's life, especially if the anxiety disorder has not been addressed for a long 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.

According to WebMD.com, many people experience depression and other problems that can cause additional physical symptoms. Some of the most common physical symptoms associated with anxiety disorders include:

1. Upset stomach. Anxiety disorders often cause the central nervous system to be out of balance. This results in an upset stomach after a meal or at various times throughout a day.

2. Headaches. The psychological stress caused by anxiety disorder often leads to headaches and migraines. In some cases, the headaches may be intense and regular that it may affect a person's life.

3. Gasping for air. The fear experienced by sufferers often activates the natural fight or flight response. This often leads to a shortness of breath; reducing the supply of oxygen to the brain making it hard to focus.

4. Insomnia. Many people suffering from anxiety disorders cannot get to sleep easily, or find it difficult to rest. Insomnia is a common side effect of many anxiety disorders, and may be corrected with lifestyle changes, herbal supplements or medication.

5. Diarrhea or constipation. Anxiety disorders can cause several problems in the digestive system, and may trigger periods of diarrhea or constipation. People who suffer from extreme levels of anxiety often need to modify their diets to ensure they are eating the right types of foods. This can mean eating a steady diet of easily-digestible, well-balanced meals.

6. Excessive sweating. Heart palpitations and an elevated heart rate are linked to increased central nervous system activity, and this often triggers excessive sweating. People with anxiety disorders often experience bouts of excessive sweating, even when they are not facing any type of fearful situation or problem.

7. Muscular tightness and involuntary twitches. Anxiety disorders can affect the nervous system in a way that it produces muscle jerks and tension. Muscle jerks in themselves can further cause anxiety if it happens in public.

There are specific physical symptoms that correspond to different anxiety disorders. Recognizing these symptoms is the first step in concocting the most effective treatment for an individual's case. A treatment may include behavioral therapy, lifestyle modification, medication, and nutritional supplementation.

If you have ever suffered from anxiety when vacationing or traveling, there is hope. Successful non-pharmaceutical approaches are emerging to help you to free yourself from the fearful thoughts that can lead to panic attacks.

Filed under About Anxiety by Kenneth Beason

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