Anxiety disorder
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| Anxiety disorder | |
|---|---|
| File:The Scream.jpg | |
| Synonyms | N/A |
| Pronounce | N/A |
| Specialty | N/A |
| Symptoms | Excessive worry, fear, nervousness, restlessness, panic attacks |
| Complications | N/A |
| Onset | Childhood or adulthood |
| Duration | Chronic |
| Types | N/A |
| Causes | Genetic, environmental, psychological factors |
| Risks | Family history, trauma, stress, substance abuse |
| Diagnosis | Clinical assessment, DSM-5 criteria |
| Differential diagnosis | Depression, bipolar disorder, thyroid disorders, heart disease |
| Prevention | N/A |
| Treatment | Cognitive behavioral therapy, medication, lifestyle changes |
| Medication | Antidepressants, anxiolytics, beta blockers |
| Prognosis | N/A |
| Frequency | Common; affects millions worldwide |
| Deaths | Rare, but can lead to suicide if untreated |
Anxiety Disorder[edit]
Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health disorders characterized by significant feelings of anxiety and fear. Anxiety is a worry about future events, and fear is a reaction to current events. These feelings may cause physical symptoms, such as a fast heart rate and shakiness.
Types of Anxiety Disorders[edit]
Anxiety disorders include:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Panic disorder
- Social anxiety disorder (SAD)
- Specific phobias
- Agoraphobia
- Separation anxiety disorder
Each type of anxiety disorder has its own unique set of symptoms, but all are characterized by excessive fear or worry.
Symptoms[edit]
Common symptoms of anxiety disorders include:
- Feeling nervous, restless, or tense
- Having a sense of impending danger, panic, or doom
- Increased heart rate
- Rapid breathing (hyperventilation)
- Sweating
- Trembling
- Feeling weak or tired
- Trouble concentrating or thinking about anything other than the present worry
Causes[edit]
The exact cause of anxiety disorders is unknown, but they are likely a combination of genetic, environmental, psychological, and developmental factors. Risk factors include:
- Trauma
- Stress due to an illness
- Stress buildup
- Personality
- Other mental health disorders
- Having blood relatives with an anxiety disorder
- Drugs or alcohol
Diagnosis[edit]
Diagnosis of anxiety disorders involves a physical exam, mental health evaluation, and psychological questionnaires. Healthcare providers may use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) criteria to diagnose anxiety disorders.
Treatment[edit]
Treatment for anxiety disorders often includes a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Common treatments include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Antidepressants
- Anti-anxiety medications
- Beta-blockers
- Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, healthy diet, and adequate sleep
Prognosis[edit]
With proper treatment, many people with anxiety disorders can manage their symptoms and lead normal, fulfilling lives. However, some may experience chronic anxiety that requires ongoing treatment.
