Physical Symptoms of Anxiety Attacks
The physical symptoms of anxiety attacks are the same physical
reactions which we experience when we are put in harm’s way. Our
bodies have developed a physiological reaction to danger known
as the “flight-or-fight” response, when a surge of adrenaline
raises the heartbeat and blood pressure, increases the breathing
rate, and sends a surge of glucose to the muscles so that they
are ready either to attack the danger, or run from it.
Some other effects of the flight-or fight state which can also
surface as symptoms of anxiety attacks are vertigo, indigestion
or nausea, excessive perspiration, tingling or numbness in the
extremities, and headache.
The surge of excess energy brought about by an anxiety attack
can also cause people to start pacing or speaking very quickly,
wringing their hands, tearing at their hair, or chewing their
nails and knuckles. All these behaviors can be the physical
symptoms of anxiety attacks.
And, while the heightened energy we have in times of actual
physical threat is necessary for our survival, anxiety disorders
lead people to experience the physical symptoms of anxiety
attacks when there is no danger present. Because they do not
understand what is happening, people who have not yet been
diagnosed with an anxiety disorder may interpret the physical
symptoms of anxiety attacks as heart failure, a breathing
affliction, or a serious nervous system condition.
Because the physical symptoms of anxiety attacks are similar to
those of other illnesses, anyone who has experienced them for
any length of time should consult a physician and rule out the
possibility of an underlying organic disease.
And once an anxiety disorder has been diagnosed, its victim can
begin therapy, which may include prescription drugs designed to
alleviate the physical symptoms of anxiety attacks, but will
definitely include cognitive or behavioral therapy to eliminate
the disorder’s causes.
The physical symptoms of anxiety attacks, if left untreated, can
eventually become severe enough to prevent those with anxiety
disorders from successfully managing their lives. Because
anxiety attacks are not predictable, those with untreated
anxiety disorders are at risk when they drive, and can put
others at risk as well. And many anxiety sufferers are
embarrassed by the physical symptoms of anxiety attacks, which
can lead them to curtail their social lives.
Because they can be easily mistaken for symptoms of other
illnesses, if you begin experiencing the physical symptoms of
anxiety attacks, please see your doctor as soon as possible!
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