Physical Symptoms of Anxiety Disorder

Every person experiences anxiety at some point however, when anxiety develops into a condition it can cause physical and emotional symptoms. This can include a feeling of agitation, muscle tension, and stomach problems.

A psychologist, psychiatrist or therapist will employ screening tools to determine if you suffer from anxiety disorders. They will also inquire about your medical history, and run tests to rule other health conditions which may cause similar symptoms.

1. Headaches

Many people feel anxious from time time. An anxiety disorder is when these feelings become constant or frequent. Anxiety can affect your daily life and make you avoid social situations.

The most frequent physical sign of anxiety are headaches. They can range from an typical tension headache2 to full-blown migraine for some people. This is because many people tense their bodies in response to the fight or flight response and securing those muscles for prolonged periods of time can lead to pain.3

Lightheadedness or dizziness is another physical symptom of anxiety. This can be due to rapid heart rate, hyperventilating, or the combination of both. It can also be an indication of a major medical problem such as heart disease, which is why it’s crucial to have your heart examined by your doctor.

You might be feeling weak in your arms or legs and arms, which could be a sign of anxiety. This is because the nervous system releases cortisol and adrenaline, which help you respond to threats by increasing your heart rate and prepare your body for an attack. In time, these hormones can have a negative effect on your health, making you feel weak, shaky or dizzy.

If you’re having difficulty getting enough rest due to anxiety, it could cause your symptoms to get worse. Relax before bed and follow the same routine. This will help you get more rest. Exercise can be beneficial. Exercise can also help. If you are still having difficulties sleeping, consult your doctor about options for treatment.

2. Stomach issues

Anxiety can cause the body to tighten up, and chronic anxiety can lead to persistent pain. There may be stomach discomfort, muscle pain or diarrhea. The digestive system of your body can be affected by the constant release of stress hormones and this could lead to constipation, bloating or irritable bowel syndrome.

People who suffer from panic disorders are at greater chance of developing stomach problems. Panic attacks are sudden feelings of terror or impending doom that happen in specific circumstances or for no reason, according to the American Psychiatric Association. You might feel as if you’re experiencing a heart attack or that you’re not breathing, and you might have chest pain or a rapid heartbeat.

Chronic anxiety can increase your risk of other health issues as well. The hormones that trigger anxiety symptoms help us to respond to threats, but if we’re constantly alert our immune system could be affected. This could make you more susceptible to the common cold, as well as other ailments.

Your doctor can diagnose anxiety disorders through a physical examination and a discussion about your symptoms. They will rule out other causes, such as heart disease or thyroid problems, before diagnosing you with anxiety. A mental health professional will be able to provide assistance and support in managing your symptoms. They can help you learn relaxation techniques and help you work through any traumas or negative experiences that may have caused your anxiety. They can also aid you in finding the appropriate treatment for you. Ask your doctor to refer you or look up directories online for an anxiety specialist.

3. Muscle tension

While most people know that a heart racing and hands that are jittery are indicators of anxiety, many don’t know that tension in the muscles is a indicator of anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) or social anxiety disorder (SAD) or panic disorder, or specific fears. If a person is experiencing these symptoms on a regular basis they may lose their range and suffer from chronic pain in their neck, back and shoulders.

Tense muscles may be a symptom of anxiety disorders because the body’s fight or flight response triggers a sequence of reactions which cause us to physically react when we feel threatened. These reactions are a normal part of our survival instincts however, they can cause problems in the long run if they are repeated or over a long period of time.

When there is a real danger the adrenal glands crank out hormones that increase the speed at which your heart beats to ensure it can pump more blood to the massive muscles in your arms and legs in case you need to flee or fight the threat. These increased heart rates also increase the rate of your lungs filling with oxygen. The combination of increased stress and hyperventilation can make you feel dizzy or lightheaded.

If you have an anxiety disorder your body is unable to return to its normal resting state between stress responses. Your anxiety disorder causes you to be constantly anxious which means that your sympathetic nervous system remains on high alert. According to the American Psychological Association, this can lead to chronic muscle tension and long-term pain. It can also affect your digestive system, which can cause stomachaches constipation, diarrhea, or irritable bowel syndrome.

4. Dizziness

If you’re a person who is anxious you may feel dizzy and out of balance. This is because of the nervous system’s response to anxiety. When you are worried or worried your body tightens and then relaxes. However, if your anxiety is recurring and you are experiencing these symptoms often you could be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder.

It can be difficult to fall asleep or concentrate when you’re constantly worried. According to the Cleveland Clinic, it can also cause your body to suffer and you may gain weight. Anxiety can also have a significant influence on the menstrual cycle. It’s because it could cause you to skip or have irregular menstrual flow due to the inability to release ovulation-inducing hormones, according to the American Psychological Association.

High blood pressure or heart disease can make you more susceptible to anxiety, and it’s essential to bring these medical conditions under control to reduce your risk. Tell your therapist if you suffer from any of these ailments.

Other things that can increase your risk of anxiety are traumatic experiences like being in a car crash or having surgery. Anxiety can be caused by a chronic illness like asthma or diabetes or a recurring medical health condition. There are treatments for anxiety disorders. They include psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) that helps you turn negative anxiety-inducing thoughts and behaviors into positive ones. You can also learn relaxation techniques like deep breathing and meditation. You can also take supplements to calm your mind and body.

5. Sweating

Anxiety is a term used to describe for a range of frightening feelings that could cause your heart to beat and your stomach turn a bit upset, and your muscles tense. These emotions alone aren’t enough to cause anxiety disorders however, when they become chronic, it could be a problem. You might also experience sweating, chills and other physical symptoms that prompt you to seek medical attention.

Sweating is a typical physical symptom of anxiety disorders, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. When your body’s fight-or flight response kicks in, it increases the rate of blood circulation to prepare you for fight or escape. This increase in heart rate can cause you to feel dizzy and breathless. Breathing faster than normal–also known as hyperventilation–can enhance many of these physical symptoms by upsetting the balance between oxygen and carbon dioxide in your body, according to U.S. National Library of Medicine.

This imbalance could also lead to an uneasy feeling that you are not breathing and is known as dyspnea. It’s a sign that your anxiety is getting too intense to manage.

Your doctor will test you for an anxiety disorder based on your reported symptoms and the way they impact your daily activities. They’ll start by asking you about your previous experiences and current concerns. They may also run tests to look for other health issues that may be causing them, like imaging scans and blood tests. In some instances, they may suggest medications to ease symptoms. These include powerful antiperspirants containing aluminium, drugs that block nerves and Botox injections to treat sweat glands. Alternative treatments include psychotherapy, cognitive behavior therapy and relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga.