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Definition
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.
Causes
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.
Symptoms
- Apprehension
- Worry
- Dizziness
- Sweating
- Trembling
- Tense feeling
- Vigilance
- Irritability
- Other body systems may be involved,
with the resulting possible symptoms:
- Headaches, including migraines
- Heart racing
- Tightness or pressure in the chest
- Increased blood pressure
- Stomach pain and acid feeling
Indigestion
Hyperventilation
or rapid, shallow breathing
Choking sensation
Tingling sensation
Screening and Diagnosis
- 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:
- Buspar
Paxil
and other calming anti-depressants
Benzodiazepines such as
Xanax, used cautiously
due to addicting potential
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