Anxiety is a common occurrence when a person faces potentially problematic or dangerous situations. It is also felt when a person perceives an external threat. However, chronic and irrational anxiety can lead to a form of anxiety disorder. There are different types of anxiety disorders depending on their causes or triggers.

Common forms of anxiety disorders

Generalized anxiety disorder

A person who has this type of anxiety disorder usually experiences prolonged anxiety that is often without basis. More accurately, people with generalized anxiety disorders cannot articulate the reason behind their anxiety. This type of anxiety usually lasts for six months and often affects women. Due to the persistence of the anxiety, people affected with generalized anxiety disorder constantly fret and worry. This results in heart palpitations, insomnia, headaches, and dizzy spells.

Specific phobia

Unlike someone with generalized anxiety disorder, a person who has a specific phobia experiences extreme and often irrational fear of a certain situation or object. When exposed to the object or situation they fear, people with specific phobias exhibit signs of intense fear like shaking, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, and nausea. Common specific phobias include fear of heights, enclosed spaces, blood, and animals. The fear a person with phobia feels can be so extreme that he or she may disregard safety just to escape the situation.

Panic disorder

Also known as Agoraphobia, panic disorders are characterized by recurring panic attacks which are often unexpected. Symptoms are usually shaking, chest pains, dizziness, fear of losing control, and reluctance to be alone. People with panic disorder are aware that their panic is usually unfounded and illogical. This is why they avoid public situations and being alone. A panic attack can be so severe that people may lose control and hurt themselves.

Social phobia

Alternatively called social anxiety, a person with social phobia may exhibit similar symptoms to those of panic disorder especially in social situations. Shaking, dizziness, shortness of breath, and heart palpitations may ensue when a person with social phobia finds himself or herself at the center of attention or in the company of many people, regardless of whether they are strangers or not.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder

People with obsessive-compulsive disorder experience anxiety caused by an obsession or idea. They tend to avoid experiencing anxiety by resorting to repetitive actions or behaviors that prevent anxiety. For example, a person who is obsessed with cleanliness may experience anxiety at the mere sight of a vase placed slightly off-center. To prevent anxiety, he or she will clean and organize everything compulsively or without reason.

Separation Anxiety Disorder

Separation anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive fear or anxiety about separation from attachment figures, such as parents or caregivers. Symptoms may include recurrent distress when anticipating or experiencing separation, excessive worry about harm or loss of attachment figures, reluctance or refusal to be alone or away from home, and physical symptoms such as headaches or stomachaches.

PTSD

Post-traumatic stress disorder may occur after a person experiences a severely traumatic event. He or she may relive the experience in his or her mind which causes stress and anxiety. If a person with PTSD comes into contact with stimuli (any object, person, or situation) that he or she associates with the traumatic event, he or she may re-experience the event by crying uncontrollably, panicking, or losing control. Subtler symptoms include insomnia and avoidant behavior. PTSD may manifest itself immediately after the traumatic event or even years after.

Determining the type of anxiety disorder a person has is crucial to seeking treatment and recovery. Techniques and methods that are used to help a person cope with a certain anxiety usually target not only the management of symptoms but also coping mechanisms when exposed to triggers. Only after a thorough diagnosis can treatment and recovery for anxiety disorders commence.

 

Commonly Ask Questions

 

Can anxiety cause chest pain?

Yes, anxiety can cause chest pain, although it’s essential to distinguish between chest pain caused by anxiety and chest pain that may be due to other medical conditions. When someone experiences anxiety, their body’s stress response system, known as the fight-or-flight response, can be activated, leading to various physical sensations, including chest discomfort or pain. Here are some ways in which anxiety can contribute to chest pain:

  1. Muscle Tension: Anxiety and stress can cause muscle tension throughout the body, including in the chest area. This muscle tension can lead to feelings of tightness, discomfort, or pain in the chest.
  2. Hyperventilation: During periods of anxiety or panic, individuals may hyperventilate, or breathe rapidly and shallowly. Hyperventilation can lead to changes in the body’s pH levels and cause sensations such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, or a feeling of suffocation.
  3. Increased Heart Rate: Anxiety can cause the heart to beat faster and more forcefully, a phenomenon known as palpitations. Palpitations can sometimes be felt as chest discomfort or pain.
  4. Somatic Symptoms: Anxiety can manifest as somatic symptoms, which are physical symptoms that are perceived as originating from the body. These symptoms can include chest pain, headaches, gastrointestinal disturbances, and other physical sensations.
  5. Hypersensitivity to Bodily Sensations: Individuals with anxiety disorders may be hypersensitive to bodily sensations and interpret normal physiological changes as signs of a serious medical condition. This hypersensitivity can lead to heightened awareness of sensations in the chest area and increased anxiety about potential health problems.

While chest pain associated with anxiety is typically harmless and temporary, it’s essential to rule out other potential causes of chest pain, particularly if the pain is severe, prolonged, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, or pain radiating to the arms, jaw, neck, or back. In some cases, chest pain may be a sign of a medical emergency, such as a heart attack or pulmonary embolism, and should be evaluated promptly by a healthcare professional.

If you experience chest pain or discomfort and are unsure of the cause, it’s essential to seek medical attention to rule out any serious underlying conditions. A healthcare provider can conduct a thorough evaluation, perform any necessary tests or examinations, and provide guidance on appropriate treatment or management based on the findings. Additionally, if you have a known anxiety disorder or experience frequent anxiety-related chest pain, working with a mental health professional can help address underlying anxiety and develop strategies to manage symptoms effectively.

 

Can anxiety cause high blood pressure?

Yes, anxiety can cause temporary increases in blood pressure. When a person experiences anxiety or stress, their body’s stress response system, known as the fight-or-flight response, is activated. This response triggers the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which can lead to physiological changes in the body, including increases in heart rate and blood pressure.

Here’s how anxiety can contribute to elevated blood pressure:

  1. Increased Heart Rate: Anxiety and stress can cause the heart to beat faster and more forcefully. This increased heart rate is part of the body’s response to prepare for a perceived threat or danger. As the heart rate increases, it pumps more blood, which can lead to a temporary rise in blood pressure.
  2. Constriction of Blood Vessels: Stress hormones released during periods of anxiety can cause blood vessels to constrict or narrow, increasing resistance to blood flow. This can result in a temporary increase in blood pressure as the heart works harder to pump blood through the narrowed blood vessels.
  3. Hyperventilation: During periods of anxiety or panic, individuals may hyperventilate, or breathe rapidly and shallowly. Hyperventilation can lead to changes in the body’s pH levels and cause respiratory alkalosis, a condition characterized by reduced levels of carbon dioxide in the blood. This can trigger compensatory physiological responses, including constriction of blood vessels and increased heart rate, which can contribute to elevated blood pressure.

While anxiety-related increases in blood pressure are typically temporary and return to normal once the stressor is resolved or the individual relaxes, chronic or persistent anxiety can potentially contribute to long-term high blood pressure (hypertension) if left untreated. Chronic stress and anxiety can place strain on the cardiovascular system over time, leading to sustained elevations in blood pressure and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

It’s important to note that anxiety-related increases in blood pressure are usually mild to moderate and temporary, but they can be concerning for individuals with pre-existing hypertension or other cardiovascular risk factors. If you have high blood pressure or are at risk of cardiovascular disease, managing stress and anxiety effectively is essential for overall heart health. This may include practicing relaxation techniques, engaging in regular exercise, getting adequate sleep, maintaining a healthy diet, and seeking support from a mental health professional if needed.

If you experience frequent or severe anxiety symptoms, including significant increases in blood pressure, it’s essential to seek help from a healthcare professional for an evaluation and appropriate management. Effective treatment for anxiety may include therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and stress management techniques to help reduce anxiety symptoms and promote overall well-being.

Can anxiety cause diarrhea?

Yes, anxiety can cause diarrhea. When a person experiences anxiety or stress, their body’s stress response system, known as the fight-or-flight response, is activated. This response triggers a cascade of physiological changes in the body, including alterations in the digestive system.

Here’s how anxiety can contribute to diarrhea:

  1. Activation of the Sympathetic Nervous System: Anxiety activates the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body’s fight-or-flight response. Activation of this system can lead to increased secretion of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which can affect the functioning of the digestive system.
  2. Increased Peristalsis: Peristalsis refers to the rhythmic contraction and relaxation of muscles in the digestive tract that propels food and waste through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. During periods of anxiety, peristalsis may become more rapid and forceful, leading to accelerated movement of food and waste through the intestines. This can result in diarrhea, characterized by loose or watery stools.
  3. Changes in Gut Motility: Anxiety can affect gut motility, or the movement of food and waste through the GI tract. Some individuals may experience increased gut motility during periods of anxiety, leading to diarrhea, while others may experience decreased gut motility, leading to constipation.
  4. Altered Gut-Brain Axis: The gut-brain axis refers to the bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain, involving various neural, hormonal, and immune pathways. Anxiety can disrupt the balance of this communication system, leading to changes in gut function and bowel habits. The gut microbiome, which consists of trillions of microorganisms residing in the digestive tract, may also play a role in the relationship between anxiety and diarrhea.
  5. Increased Sensitivity to Stress: Some individuals may be more sensitive to stress or anxiety, and their bodies may respond with gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea. This heightened sensitivity to stress can exacerbate existing digestive issues or contribute to the development of new symptoms.

While anxiety-related diarrhea is typically temporary and resolves once the stressor is alleviated or the individual relaxes, chronic or persistent anxiety can potentially contribute to ongoing gastrointestinal symptoms if left untreated. Chronic stress and anxiety can disrupt normal gut function and contribute to conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or functional diarrhea.

If you experience frequent or severe anxiety-related diarrhea, it’s essential to seek help from a healthcare professional for an evaluation and appropriate management. Effective treatment for anxiety-related gastrointestinal symptoms may include therapy, medication, stress management techniques, dietary modifications, and lifestyle changes to help reduce anxiety symptoms and promote overall well-being. Additionally, managing underlying gastrointestinal conditions such as IBS may help alleviate anxiety-related diarrhea.

 

can anxiety cause nausea?

Yes, anxiety can cause nausea. When a person experiences anxiety or stress, their body’s stress response system, known as the fight-or-flight response, is activated. This response triggers a cascade of physiological changes in the body, including alterations in the digestive system.

Here’s how anxiety can contribute to nausea:

  1. Activation of the Sympathetic Nervous System: Anxiety activates the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body’s fight-or-flight response. Activation of this system can lead to increased secretion of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which can affect the functioning of the digestive system.
  2. Altered Gastric Motility: Anxiety can affect gastric motility or the movement of food and fluids through the stomach. Some individuals may experience increased gastric motility during periods of anxiety, leading to rapid emptying of the stomach contents into the small intestine. This rapid emptying can trigger nausea or discomfort in the upper abdomen.
  3. Increased Sensitivity to Stress: Some individuals may be more sensitive to stress or anxiety, and their bodies may respond with gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea. This heightened sensitivity to stress can exacerbate existing digestive issues or contribute to the development of new symptoms.
  4. Changes in Autonomic Nervous System Function: Anxiety can affect the functioning of the autonomic nervous system, which regulates involuntary bodily functions such as digestion. Dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system can lead to abnormal responses in the digestive system, including nausea or discomfort.
  5. Hyperventilation: During periods of anxiety or panic, individuals may hyperventilate, or breathe rapidly and shallowly. Hyperventilation can lead to changes in the body’s pH levels and cause respiratory alkalosis, a condition characterized by reduced levels of carbon dioxide in the blood. This can trigger compensatory physiological responses, including nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort.

While anxiety-related nausea is typically temporary and resolves once the stressor is alleviated or the individual relaxes, chronic or persistent anxiety can potentially contribute to ongoing gastrointestinal symptoms if left untreated. Chronic stress and anxiety can disrupt normal digestive function and contribute to conditions such as functional dyspepsia or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

If you experience frequent or severe anxiety-related nausea, it’s essential to seek help from a healthcare professional for an evaluation and appropriate management. Effective treatment for anxiety-related gastrointestinal symptoms may include therapy, medication, stress management techniques, dietary modifications, and lifestyle changes to help reduce anxiety symptoms and promote overall well-being. Additionally, managing underlying gastrointestinal conditions such as functional dyspepsia or IBS may help alleviate anxiety-related nausea.

How Do I Know if I have anxiety symptoms?

Anxiety symptoms can vary widely from person to person and can manifest in a variety of ways, both physically and psychologically. Here are some common symptoms of anxiety:

  1. Physical Symptoms:
    • Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
    • Chest pain or tightness
    • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
    • Muscle tension or stiffness
    • Trembling or shaking
    • Sweating or clamminess
    • Dizziness or lightheadedness
    • Nausea or upset stomach
    • Headaches or migraines
    • Fatigue or low-energy
    • Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
    • Changes in appetite or weight
  2. Psychological Symptoms:
    • Excessive worry or apprehension
    • Feeling tense or on edge
    • Irritability or restlessness
    • Difficulty concentrating or focusing
    • Racing thoughts or mind going blank
    • Fear of losing control or going crazy
    • Fear of dying or having a heart attack
    • Feeling detached from oneself or reality (depersonalization or derealization)
    • Intrusive thoughts or obsessions
    • Avoidance of situations or activities that trigger anxiety
  3. Behavioral Symptoms:
    • Avoidance of anxiety-provoking situations or triggers
    • Seeking reassurance from others
    • Difficulty making decisions
    • Procrastination or avoidance of responsibilities
    • Irritability or outbursts of anger
    • Restlessness or pacing
    • Nail biting or other nervous habits
    • Difficulty relaxing or unwinding
  4. Social Symptoms:
    • Social withdrawal or isolation
    • Difficulty forming or maintaining relationships
    • Fear of social situations or performance anxiety (social anxiety)
    • Self-consciousness or embarrassment in social settings
    • Fear of being judged or criticized by others
    • Difficulty speaking or expressing oneself in social situations

It’s important to note that experiencing occasional anxiety is a normal part of life, and it can serve as a helpful response to stressful or threatening situations. However, when anxiety becomes chronic, excessive, or interferes with daily functioning and quality of life, it may be indicative of an anxiety disorder.

If you are experiencing persistent or severe anxiety symptoms that are impacting your life, it’s essential to seek help from a healthcare professional for an evaluation and appropriate management. Effective treatment for anxiety disorders may include therapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or exposure therapy), medication (such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications), lifestyle changes, and stress management techniques to help alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being. Remember that you are not alone, and support is available to help you manage your anxiety and regain control of your life.

Are there Treatments for anxiety?

Yes, there are several effective treatments for anxiety disorders. The choice of treatment depends on the type and severity of the anxiety disorder, as well as individual preferences and circumstances. Here are some common treatments for anxiety:

  1. Therapy (Psychotherapy/Counseling):
    • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is one of the most widely used and researched therapies for anxiety disorders. It focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to anxiety, as well as teaching coping strategies and relaxation techniques to manage symptoms.
    • Exposure Therapy: Exposure therapy involves gradually and systematically exposing individuals to feared situations or triggers in a controlled and safe environment. This exposure helps desensitize individuals to their fears and teaches them that the feared outcomes are unlikely to occur.
    • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT focuses on accepting uncomfortable thoughts and feelings rather than trying to control or eliminate them. It helps individuals clarify their values and take committed action toward living a meaningful life despite anxiety.
    • Mindfulness-Based Therapies: Mindfulness-based therapies, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) or mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), teach individuals to cultivate present-moment awareness and nonjudgmental acceptance of their thoughts and feelings, which can help reduce anxiety.
  2. Medication:
    • Antidepressants: Certain antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), are commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders. These medications help regulate neurotransmitter levels in the brain and can reduce symptoms of anxiety over time.
    • Benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines are fast-acting sedatives that are sometimes used for short-term relief of severe anxiety symptoms. However, they are generally not recommended for long-term use due to the risk of tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal.
  3. Lifestyle Changes:
    • Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety by promoting the release of endorphins, improving mood, and reducing stress.
    • Healthy Eating: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can support overall well-being and may help reduce anxiety symptoms.
    • Stress Management Techniques: Techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, meditation, yoga, and tai chi can help promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
    • Adequate Sleep: Prioritizing good sleep hygiene, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and avoiding stimulants like caffeine or electronics before bed, can improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety.
  4. Support Groups: Joining a support group or seeking peer support from others who have experienced similar struggles with anxiety can provide validation, encouragement, and practical coping strategies.
  5. Self-Help Resources: Books, websites, apps, and online programs that offer information, education, and self-help exercises for managing anxiety can be valuable resources for individuals seeking to learn more about their condition and develop effective coping strategies.

It’s important to work with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment approach for your individual needs and circumstances. Effective treatment for anxiety often involves a combination of therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and support. Remember that recovery is possible, and with the right support and resources, you can learn to manage your anxiety and improve your quality of life.