Anxiety

What is anxiety disorder?

It’s “normal” to experience anxiety at times. Changes at work, an unexpected argument with a friend, or a family member’s illness can cause worry and anxiety about what’s going to happen next.

However, if you frequently have intense, excessive, persistent worry or fear about everyday situations, you may have an anxiety disorder.

Sometimes, anxiety disorders include sudden episodes of terror that can make you feel as if you’re dying. This is called a panic attack.

What are the symptoms of anxiety disorder?

Ongoing anxiety can cause:

• Persistent feelings of hopelessness and helplessness
• Loss of interest or refusal to participate in social events or hobbies you once enjoyed
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Irritability, moodiness, and restlessness

Anxiety can also affect your appetite and disrupt your sleep patterns.

You may also experience physical symptoms, including:

• Headaches
• Cramping pain in your muscles
• Digestive problems, such as diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal pain
• Increased heart rate with sweating, rapid breathing, and elevated blood pressure during a panic attack

Is anxiety related to depression?

It’s often not clear if depression leads to anxiety or if anxiety comes before depression, but many individuals diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) also develop depression.

What causes anxiety disorders?

Anxiety disorders are most likely caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Chemical imbalances in the brain can trigger anxiety,or OCD, and you’re much more likely to develop an anxiety disorder if you have a family history. PTSD is linked to a history of trauma, such as service in the military or a tragic auto accident.

Medical illnesses such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease are also linked to anxiety, which may also make these conditions more difficult to manage. Certain medications can cause or worsen anxiety. A highly stressful life that keeps your adrenaline pumping is often linked to anxiety disorders as well.

What is the treatment for anxiety?

The most effective treatment strategy for anxiety includes a combination of therapies. We may recommend:

• Anti-anxiety medication that we prescribe here at Lyon Primary Care or through referral to a specialist
• Counseling
• Stress management that may include relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or biofeedback
• Routine exercise to help calm your anxiety and improve your overall health
• A nutritious, healthy diet

Schedule a visit online or over the phone today at Lyon Primary Care to discuss effective treatment for anxiety.