OverviewExperiencing occasional anxiety is a normal part of life. However, people with anxiety disorders frequently have intense, excessive and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations. Often, anxiety disorders involve repeated episodes of sudden feelings of intense anxiety and fear or terror that reach a peak within minutes (panic attacks). Show These feelings of anxiety and panic interfere with daily activities, are difficult to control, are out of proportion to the actual danger and can last a long time. You may avoid places or situations to prevent these feelings. Symptoms may start during childhood or the teen years and continue into adulthood. Examples of anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder (social phobia), specific phobias and separation anxiety disorder. You can have more than one anxiety disorder. Sometimes anxiety results from a medical condition that needs treatment. Whatever form of anxiety you have, treatment can help. SymptomsCommon anxiety signs and symptoms include:
Several types of anxiety disorders exist:
When to see a doctorSee your doctor if:
Your worries may not go away on their own, and they may get worse over time if you don't seek help. See your doctor or a mental health provider before your anxiety gets worse. It's easier to treat if you get help early. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips and
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information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of privacy practices. You may opt-out of email communications at any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. CausesThe causes of anxiety disorders aren't fully understood. Life experiences such as traumatic events appear to trigger anxiety disorders in people who are already prone to anxiety. Inherited traits also can be a factor. Medical causesFor some people, anxiety may be linked to an underlying health issue. In some cases, anxiety signs and symptoms are the first indicators of a medical illness. If your doctor suspects your anxiety may have a medical cause, he or she may order tests to look for signs of a problem. Examples of medical problems that can be linked to anxiety include:
Sometimes anxiety can be a side effect of certain medications. It's possible that your anxiety may be due to an underlying medical condition if:
Risk factorsThese factors may increase your risk of developing an anxiety disorder:
ComplicationsHaving an anxiety disorder does more than make you worry. It can also lead to, or worsen, other mental and physical conditions, such as:
PreventionThere's no way to predict for certain what will cause someone to develop an anxiety disorder, but you can take steps to reduce the impact of symptoms if you're anxious:
How do I know if im having an anxiety attack?What are the signs of a panic attack?. what feels like an irregular or racing heartbeat (palpitations). irregular or racing heartbeat (palpitations). sweating.. trembling.. shortness of breath (hyperventilation). a choking sensation.. nausea.. dizziness.. What is the difference between a panic attack and an anxiety attack?Panic and anxiety attacks both cause a rapid heart rate, shallow breathing, and a sense of distress. However, they typically differ in severity and cause. Panic attacks are often more intense and can occur with or without a trigger, while anxiety attacks are a response to a perceived threat.
How do you notice anxiety attacks?Symptoms of a panic attack. a racing heartbeat.. feeling faint, dizzy or lightheaded.. feeling that you're losing control.. sweating, trembling or shaking.. shortness of breath or breathing very quickly.. a tingling in your fingers or lips.. feeling sick (nausea). How long does an anxiety attack usually last?Most anxiety attacks last between a few minutes and half an hour. ⁴ They will usually reach their peak in about ten minutes. ⁴ Of course, during an attack, time feels slower, and ten minutes may feel like an hour. There is also the possibility that a person might have several panic or anxiety attacks back-to-back.
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