General Information
DEFINITION--A vague, uncomfortable feeling of fear, dread or danger from an
unknown source. For some it may be a one time episode; other persons become constantly
anxious about everything. A certain amount of anxiety is normal and helps improve our
performance and allows people to avoid dangerous situations. Several types of anxiety are
recognized including acute situational anxiety (which is usually short-term), generalized
anxiety disorder and adjustment disorder. (See also Panic Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress
Disorder, Phobias, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in Illness section). Generalized
anxiety is defined as unrealistic or excessive anxiety for 6 months or longer. Anxiety is
the most common mental health problem in the U.S.
BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Central nervous system; endocrine system.
SEX OR AGE MOST AFFECTED--Females more than males, and mainly in adults ages
20-45.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
- Feeling that something undesirable or harmful is about to happen (edginess and
apprehension).
- Dry mouth; swallowing difficulty; hoarseness.
- Rapid breathing and heartbeat, palpitations.
- Twitching or trembling.
- Muscle tension; headaches; backache.
- Sweating.
- Difficulty in concentrating.
- Dizziness or faintness.
- Nausea; diarrhea; weight loss.
- Sleeplessness.
- Irritability.
- Fatigue.
- Nightmares.
- Memory problems.
- Sexual impotence.
CAUSES--Activation of the body's defense mechanisms for fight or flight. Excess
adrenalin is discharged from the adrenal glands, and adrenalin breakdown products
(catecholamines) eventually affect various parts of the body. Attempts to avoid the
anxiety leads to more anxiety.
RISK INCREASES WITH
- Stress from any source (such as social or financial problems).
- Family history of neurosis.
- Fatigue or overwork.
- Recurrence of situations that have been previously stressful or harmful.
- Medical illness.
- Unrealistic perfectionism.
- Withdrawal from drugs or alcohol.
HOW TO PREVENT
- Practice relaxation techniques or meditation.
- Consider lifestyle changes to reduce stress. See How to Cope with Stress in Appendix.
What To Expect
DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES--
- Your own observation of symptoms.
- Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
- Laboratory studies to rule out medical conditions that produce anxiety, such as
hyperthyroidism, anemia, hypoglycemia, diabetes.
APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE
- Self-care.
- Doctor's treatment.
- Psychotherapy or counseling.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
- Impaired social and occupational functioning.
- A sudden increase in anxiety may lead to panic and violent escape behavior.
- Dependence on drugs.
- Heart arrhythmias.
PROBABLE OUTCOME--Generalized anxiety can be controlled with treatment.
Overcoming anxiety often results in a richer, more satisfying life.
How To Treat
GENERAL MEASURES--
- Obtain therapy to understand the specific but unconscious threat or source of stress.
- Learn techniques, including biofeedback and relaxation therapy, to reduce muscle
tension.
- Follow a regular energetic fitness routine using aerobic exercise if possible.
- See Resources for Additional Information.
MEDICATION--Your doctor may prescribe:
- Antianxiety drugs for a short-term basis.
- Antidepressants for panic-disorders.
ACTIVITY--Stay active. Physical exertion helps reduce anxiety.
DIET--No special diet. Avoid caffeine and other stimulants and alcohol.
Call Your Doctor If
- You have symptoms of anxiety and self-treatment has failed.
- You have a sudden feeling of panic.
- New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.
|