Anxiety

Overview

Any stress in our life leads to anxiety, which is characterized by fearfulness and uncertainty. Anxiety disorders, encompasses a group of disorders, in which the level of anxiety is severe. These disorders, if left untreated, can disturb the lives of people suffering from it, and therefore needs special medical attention. As anxiety disorders are a group of disorders, the symptoms may vary from person to person. In spite of the varied forms, all anxiety disorders share a common symptom; which is persistent fear, or stress in situations, which are very normal otherwise. Certain self help techniques can be very effective in managing anxiety. But, one should seek medical help if the symptoms start to disturb day-to-day life.

What is it? Anxiety disorders are a group of psychological disorders, in which anxiety is the main symptom.  It is a chronic disorder, which results in constant apprehension to certain situations. People suffering from anxiety disorder worry about petty issues, and may show some physical symptoms like shaking of hands, and excessive sweating etc.

Types of Anxiety Disorders ·        
Panic Disorder ·        
Obsessive Compulsive disorder ·        
Post traumatic stress disorder ·        
Social anxiety disorder ·        
Phobias ·        
Generalized anxiety disorder

Symptoms

Feelings of panic, fear, and uneasiness        
Uncontrollable, obsessive thoughts       
Repeated thoughts or flashbacks of traumatic experiences       
Nightmares       
Ritualistic behaviors, such as repeated hand washing       
Problems sleeping        
Cold or sweaty hands and/or feet        
Shortness of breath        
Palpitations        
An inability to be still and calm        
Dry mouth        
Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet        
Nausea        
Muscle tension       
Dizziness

Causes

Stress        
Family history         
Sudden life changing events like traumatic/debilitating injury

Treatments

Medications         
Psychotherapy         
Cognitive behavioral therapy        
Dietary and life changes         
Relaxation therapy

Specialist to see:  Psychiatrist/ Psychologist