Anxiety

Anxiety is not uncommon in our daily lives. We often face anxiety before an important test or when there’s a problem at work. However, when anxiety reaches extreme proportions and starts interfering with daily functions, it is termed as an anxiety disorder. For most people with this disorder, the anxiety isn’t temporary. It often worsens with time, and patients experience symptoms such as fatigue, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, irritability, sleep problems or muscle tension. Anxiety can also take the form of panic disorder. Heart palpitations, trembling, sweating, shortness of breath and feeling out of control are some of the symptoms patients experience with panic disorders. Specific phobias can also trigger anxiety among patients.

Types of anxiety disorders

There are several kinds of anxiety disorders, which include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder and phobia-related disorders.

Generalized anxiety disorder

If you display symptoms of excessive anxiety or worry for at least six months, to the point that it starts impacting your everyday social interactions, work and routine life, you could be suffering from a generalized anxiety disorder. Some of the symptoms of a generalized anxiety disorder include feeling restless, wound up, having muscle tension, feeling irritable or fatigued, having difficulty concentrating, and having sleep issues, such as difficulty falling asleep or restlessness.

Panic disorder

If you’re experiencing recurring periods of intense fear that erupt and reach a peak within minutes, you may have a panic disorder and should seek medical attention. Usually, a panic attack can begin due to a trigger such as an object or a situation. Some of the common symptoms people experience during a panic attack include trembling, sweating, accelerated heartbeat and the feeling of being out of control. Patients often worry about their future attacks and, as a result, tend to avoid objects, places and behaviors that might trigger them. 

Phobias

The intense fear of a specific object or situation is referred to as a phobia. Although fear is normal, taking it to extreme proportions can be detrimental to your mental health. People with phobias may experience an irrational worry or take active steps to avoid certain objects or situations. A phobia could be a simple fear like the fear of flying, heights or specific animals, or it could be social anxiety disorder in which a person has a fear of being judged negatively socially. For example, “agoraphobia” is an intense fear of events and situations that can potentially cause a panic-like reaction and could end up disrupting a person's life. 

Common questions and answers about anxiety

How do you distinguish between anxiety and an anxiety disorder?

While anxiety is a normal response of our body to alert us of any impending danger, anxiety disorder is a mental illness. Anxiety might show up from time to time, but it is mostly manageable. An anxiety disorder lasts for a longer duration and is often accompanied by symptoms that are severe in nature. 

How is anxiety treated?

The treatment usually involves psychotherapy, medication or both. The therapy is designed specifically to counter the patient’s anxiety. Anti-anxiety medication can be prescribed for the disorder. Medication like benzodiazepines help relieve symptoms rapidly in patients. However, medication has its drawbacks,  as the patient can build a tolerance to it over time. Antidepressants can also be used to treat anxiety disorders, but they can take time to show their effect. Nevertheless, any medication should only be prescribed by a physician based on your condition. 

What are the various risk factors associated with anxiety?

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, both genetic and environmental factors could play a role in increasing the risk of developing an anxiety disorder. Some of these factors include shyness or behavioral inhibition in childhood, family history, health problems, such as thyroid or heart arrhythmia, and exposure to stress in early childhood or adulthood.

What should I expect from a doctor’s visit for anxiety?

The doctor might ask you to detail your symptoms. They might ask you about the duration of the issue. They will probably do a physical examination to understand whether a medical condition is responsible for the anxiety you are experiencing.

Where can you find a physician for anxiety treatment near me?

At Zocdoc.com!  You can book an appointment with top-rated doctors and therapists who are available for treating anxiety in your location. Booking is simple, secure and free!

What are some quick tips to help me with a visit for anxiety?

Make a list of all the questions you want to ask your doctor about your anxiety. Make a list of all the symptoms you’re experiencing. Be sure to carry any reports or documents of conditions that you already have that may help with the assessment. Be sure to check with your insurance provider to ensure the visit is covered. 

How much does a visit for anxiety treatment cost?

The treatment cost might vary based on your location, insurance provider and other factors. 

Source: 

National Institute of Mental Health

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.