DESCRIPTION* Generalized anxiety is very common. Most people experience periods of anxiety in their lives. Others have general anxiety most of the time. The latter condition generally begins between 20-35 years of age, and is somewhat more common in women.
SYMPTOMS
* Apprehension
* Worry
* Dizziness
* Sweating
* Trembling
* Tense feeling
* Vigilance
* Irritability
* Other body systems may be involved, with the resulting possible symptoms:
1. Headaches, including migraines
2. Heart racing
3. Tightness or pressure in the chest
4. Increased blood pressure
5. Stomach pain and acid feeling
6. Indigestion
7. Hyperventilation or rapid, shallow breathing
8. Choking sensation
9. Tingling sensation
CAUSE
* Genetic predisposition, psychological stressors (e.g., social, cultural, and major significant events), neurochemical abnormalities, e.g., serotonin, GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid), and other brain chemicals may all play a role.
HOW THW DIAGNOSIS IS MADE
* Rule out other causes, such as thyroid problems, e.g., Pheochromocytoma
TREATMENT
* Biofeedback
* Regular exercise/ meditation and stress reduction techniques (e.g., deep breathing).
* Psychotherapy counseling
* Medications:
1. Buspar
2. Paxil and other calming anti-depressants
3. Benzodiazepines such as Xanax, used cautiously due to addicting potential
SIMILAR CONDITIONS
* Post traumatic stress disorder
* Social phobia
* Use of or withdrawal from drugs such as caffeine, amphetamines, cocaine, and alcohol
* Asthma and other lung problems
* Metabolic and hormonal problems such as Hyperthyroidism, Cushing's disease, Pheochromocytoma, and hypoglycemia.
* Neurological problems, such as essential tremors
* Panic Disorder
* Depression
* Obsessive-compulsive disorder
* Hyperthyroidism
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