People with anxiety disorders present a variety of physical symptoms in addition to non-physical symptoms that characterize the disorders such as excessive, unrealistic worrying. Many of these symptoms are similar to those exhibited by a person suffering general illness, heart attack, or stroke, and this tends to further increase anxiety. The following is a list of physical symptoms associated with GAD:
- Trembling
- Churning stomach
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Backache
- Heart palpitations
- Numbness or “pins and needles” in arms, hands or legs
- Sweating/flushing
- Restlessness
- Easily tired
- Trouble concentrating
- Irritability
- Muscle tension
- Frequent urination
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
- Being easily startled
Those suffering from panic disorders may experience similar physical symptoms to those with GAD. They also may experience chest pains, a sense of choking, shortness of breath, and dizziness.
Post-traumatic stress disorders have a range of symptoms that are unique to this form of anxiety. Frequent symptomatic behaviors include:
- Flashbacks or nightmares of re-experiencing the trauma
- Avoidance of people, places, and things that are associated with the original event
- Difficulty concentrating or sleeping
- Closely watching surroundings (hypervigilance)
- Irritability and diminished feelings or aspirations for the future
This anxiety information section was written by Peter Crosta. It was first published on 23 July 2009 and last updated on 28 January 2013. The information may not be re-produced in any way without the permission of Medical News Today.
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