Anxiety is a feeling of apprehension or fear. It can be mild or severe. People with anxiety may feel like they are in danger, have lost control, or are going crazy. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health disorders in the United States.
There are many different types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), panic disorder, and agoraphobia. GAD is characterized by excessive worry about everyday things such as finances, work, or family. SAD is marked by intense fear of social situations such as meeting new people or speaking in public. Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent unexpected panic attacks, which are sudden periods of intense fear that may include a pounding heart, sweating, shortness of breath, dizziness, and chest pain. Agoraphobia is an intense fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult or impossible if a panic attack occurs.
If you think you might have an anxiety disorder, it’s important to see a doctor so they can rule out other possible causes for your symptoms and provide you with the appropriate treatment. Doctors will typically ask about your medical history and any family history of mental health disorders to help them make a diagnosis. They will also.
What are your symptoms, and how severe are they?
1.What are your symptoms? Anxiety can cause a variety of physical and emotional symptoms. Physical symptoms may include a racing heart, sweating, shaking, shortness of breath, dizziness, and trouble sleeping. Emotional symptoms may include feeling tense or nervous, feeling like you’re in danger even when there’s no obvious threat, feeling keyed up or on edge, and having difficulty concentrating.
2. How severe are your symptoms? Anxiety disorders are generally categorized based on the severity of the person’s symptoms. mild anxiety disorder is characterized by occasional anxiousness or tension that doesn’t significantly interfere with day-to-day activities. moderate anxiety disorder is more persistent and can make it difficult to carry out day-to-day activities; however, people with this type of anxiety disorder can still function in social situations and most work environments. severe anxiety disorder interferes with nearly all aspects of life.
Have you ever had a panic attack?
If you have ever had a panic attack, your doctor will likely ask you about your symptoms and how long they lasted. They may also ask if you have ever had any similar episodes in the past. Your doctor will want to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms, such as a heart condition or hyperthyroidism.
Have your feelings of anxiety been occasional or continuous?
A doctor may ask a person with anxiety symptoms how long they have been experiencing them. The doctor will also ask if the person’s feelings of anxiety are occasional or continuous. Other questions that a doctor may ask include whether the person experiences physical symptoms of anxiety, such as a racing heart or sweating, and whether the person’s thoughts are focused on particular topics or activities.