Anxiety SymptomsFebruary 20, 2019
Anxiety is a word that gets thrown around a lot whenever someone is knee deep with worry. But having anxiety is much more than that –it can prevent a person from living a normal life and cause numerous physical and mental health issues if not addressed. Thus, it is important to understand what anxiety symptoms are and consult a medical professional or mental health provider for treatment and medication.
A person who suffers from an anxiety disorder is most likely to experience panic attacks, obsessive thoughts, and paralysing fears, among many others. There could be a logical reason why anxiety is triggered, sometimes there is none. Treatment for anxiety varies on the emotional and physical symptoms a person is having.
Emotional Anxiety Symptoms
- Constant worrying about the past, present, or the future
- A feeling of impending doom
- Easy to panic
- Feeling apprehensive and powerless
- Racing thoughts
- Difficulty in concentrating and remembering things
- Urge to avoid things that trigger anxiety
Physical Anxiety Symptoms
Sleeping problems. If the mind is working nonstop throughout the day, it could cause fatigue which enables one to fall asleep. At the same time, a worrying mind can keep a person up all night. Not having enough sleep could lead to numerous health problems as the immune system needs time to reset for a good 6 to 8 hours a day.
Sweating. Also, hyperhidrosis is a body’s response in moments of stress and a symptom of social anxiety. This usually happens when a person feels tense upon having to speak in front of many people or just meeting new people.
Restlessness or feeling tense. Someone with anxiety experiences muscles tension in the shoulder, back, neck, and jaw muscles. The tension might also include restless fidgeting and teeth grinding. These persist even in the absence of a threat until relaxation methods and breathing exercises are applied.
Faster or difficult breathing. Having panic attacks, obsessive thoughts, and paralysing fears increases heart rate, leading to shortness of breath. This may be fatal for those suffering from respiratory problems such as asthma and obstructive pulmonary diseases.
Stomach and digestive problems. Gut problems occur when one has anxiety such as nausea, constipation, and diarrhoea, which can interfere with one’s day to day activities.
Increase or loss of appetite. Having stress and anxiety affects how someone eats and enjoys their food. The loss of appetite could stem from the body’s fight or flight response, while the increase of appetite serves a coping mechanism for some people.
Hormonal problems in women. Having anxiety can also affect a woman’s hormone levels causing a delay in her monthly period, acne breakouts, and unexplainable mood swings, among others.
When to Visit a Doctor
No one should feel alone when dealing with anxiety symptoms. It is advisable to go to a medical or mental health professional when these symptoms start interfering with work, relationships, and other parts of life.
- When fear, worry or anxiety has become difficult to control
- When other mental and physical health concerns developed along with anxiety
- When having trouble with alcohol or drug use
- In the case of having suicidal thoughts or behaviours, it is highly advisable to seek emergency treatment immediately.
At Ubuntu Medical, we also help with Depression.