Anxiety | Types | Symptoms | Causes | Risk Factor | Treatment

What is an Anxiety Disorder?
An anxiety disorder is a type of mental health disorder. If you suffer from an anxiety disorder, you may react to certain things and situations with fear and dread. You may also experience physical signs of anxiety, such as palpitations and sweating.

It's normal to experience some anxiety. You may feel anxious or nervous if you have to face a problem at work, go to an interview, take an exam, or make an important decision. Some anxiety can also be beneficial: it helps us identify dangerous situations and focus our attention to stay safe.

But an anxiety disorder goes beyond the usual nervousness and mild fear you may experience from time to time. An anxiety disorder occurs when:

• Anxiety interferes with your ability to function.
• Your reactions are often disproportionate to the situation (overreactions).
• You cannot control your responses to situations.

Children, adolescents, and adults can suffer from anxiety disorders. Women are about twice as likely as men to suffer from them.

Anxiety disorders can make daily life difficult. Fortunately, there are several effective treatments for these conditions.

What are the types of Anxiety Disorder?
Anxiety is a key component of several disorders. These include:

• Panic disorder: This manifests itself as recurrent panic attacks at unexpected times.
• Phobia: This is an excessive fear of a specific object, situation, or activity.
• Social anxiety disorder: This is an extreme fear of being judged by others in social situations.
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder: This is recurrent irrational thoughts that lead to specific, repetitive behaviors.
• Separation anxiety disorder: This is the fear of being away from home or loved ones.
• Illness anxiety disorder: This is health anxiety (formerly called hypochondriasis).

In addition, several medical and mental health conditions can present with anxiety as a symptom. These include:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): This is anxiety that follows a traumatic event.
• Major depressive disorders: There is a strong relationship between depression and anxiety.
• Chronic illnesses: Managing conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and diabetes can trigger anxiety symptoms.
• Inflammatory conditions: Anxiety can lead to chronic inflammation and conditions such as arthritis.
• Substance use disorders: Many people with anxiety may try self-medicating to manage their symptoms.
• Chronic pain: Anxiety often occurs in people with chronic pain disorders.

What are the symptoms of Anxiety Disorder?
Symptoms of anxiety disorders vary depending on the type.

Psychological symptoms may include:

• Feelings of panic, fear, dread, and restlessness.
• Feelings of nervousness or irritability.
• Obsessive and uncontrollable thoughts.
• Difficulty concentrating.

Physical symptoms may include:

• Restlessness.
• Palpitations.
• Shortness of breath.
• Muscle tension.
• Cold or sweaty hands.
• Dry mouth.
• Nausea.
• Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet. Difficulty falling or staying asleep (insomnia).

It is important to consult a doctor or psychologist if these symptoms occur frequently.

What causes Anxiety Disorder?
As with other types of mental disorders, researchers do not know the exact cause. However, they believe a combination of factors plays a role:

Chemical imbalances: Several neurotransmitters and hormones influence anxiety, including norepinephrine, serotonin, dopamine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Imbalances in these chemicals can contribute to the onset of an anxiety disorder.

Brain changes: The amygdala, a part of the brain, plays an important role in managing fear and anxiety. Studies show that people with anxiety disorders exhibit increased amygdala activity in response to anxiety signals.

Genetics: Anxiety disorders tend to be inherited. This suggests that genetics may play a role. You may be at higher risk of developing one if you have a first-degree relative (a biological parent or sibling) with an anxiety disorder.

Environmental factors: Intense or prolonged stress can alter the balance of neurotransmitters that control mood. Experiencing a period of intense and prolonged stress can contribute to the onset of an anxiety disorder. A traumatic event can also trigger anxiety disorders.

Risk Factors for Anxiety Disorders
Some risk factors increase the likelihood of developing an anxiety disorder. Some are risk factors. Some cannot be changed, but others can.

Anxiety symptoms causes and risk factors include:

Mental health problems: Having certain mental health problems, such as depression, increases the risk of developing an anxiety disorder.

Childhood sexual abuse: Emotional, physical, and sexual abuse or neglect during childhood are linked to anxiety disorders in adulthood.

Trauma: Experiencing a traumatic event increases the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can cause panic attacks.

Adverse life events: Stressful or negative life events, such as the loss of a parent in early childhood, increase the risk of developing an anxiety disorder. Even experiencing more than one minor stressful event can put you at risk.

Serious or chronic illnesses: Constant worry about your own health or that of a loved one, or caring for someone who is ill, can cause anxiety and feelings of overwhelm.

Substance abuse: The use of alcohol and illegal drugs increases the likelihood of developing an anxiety disorder. Some people also use these substances to hide or alleviate anxiety symptoms.

How are Anxiety Disorder treated?
An anxiety disorder is like any other condition that requires treatment. It cannot be eliminated voluntarily. It is not a matter of self-discipline or attitude. Research has made great strides in the treatment of mental disorders in recent decades. Your doctor will provide you with a personalized treatment plan. This plan may include a combination of medication and psychotherapy (talk therapy).

Medications for Anxiety Disorders
Medications cannot cure an anxiety disorder. But they can improve symptoms and help you function better. Medications for anxiety disorders often include:

Antidepressants: Although they primarily treat depression, these medications can also help with anxiety disorders. They regulate how the brain uses certain chemicals to improve mood and reduce stress. Antidepressants can take time to work, so be patient. SSRIs and SNRIs are the go-to antidepressants for anxiety. Tricyclic antidepressants are another option, but they cause more side effects.

Benzodiazepines: These types of drugs can reduce anxiety, panic, and worry. They work quickly, but tolerance can develop. They also have the potential for addiction, so they should be used with caution. Your doctor may prescribe a benzodiazepine short-term and then gradually reduce the dose. Benzodiazepines that can help treat anxiety disorders include alprazolam, clonazepam, diazepam, and lorazepam.

Beta-blockers: These medications can help reduce some of the physical symptoms of anxiety disorders, such as rapid heartbeat, tremors, and agitation. They do not treat the psychological aspects of anxiety disorders.

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