Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety is a necessary flight-or-fight instinct. It's normal to feel anxiety, but not if it becomes chronic. When anxiety becomes constant or the stress response is overly sensitive, greater problems can erupt such as lowered immunity and anxiety disorder. Medical professionals advise seeking treatment when anxiety disrupts daily life and there seems to be no reason for unchecked anxiety.
Signs and symptoms of anxiety can vary in combination and severity.

Stomach or chest pains

Anxiety commonly manifests in the body. People often feel either chest pains or experience stomach and digestion problems, such as diarrhea.

Feeling overwhelmed

People with anxiety often feel overwhelmed and helpless. In attempts to ease anxiety, they may check and recheck their actions. They also may not even know why or where their constant anxiety comes from. This can lead to feelings of being on edge.

Confusion

Anxiety also can cause mental fogginess. People may find it difficult to concentrate or be easily distracted. Anxiety may cause fatigue, further clouding one's ability to make sound decisions.

Moodiness

Increased irritability is another symptom of anxiety. People may find themselves impatient because they feel pressured and hurried. Sadness and depression, although not always linked with anxiety, are other symptoms.

Allergic reactions

Sometimes the stress from anxiety may show up as a skin rash, hives or cause an existing condition such as asthma to flare up.

Food and substance abuse

Food disorders, such as eating too much or too little, are common reactions to anxiety. People also may seek to quell their anxiety with alcohol, cigarettes or other substances.

Problems in the bedroom

Anxiety is a frequent interrupter of sleep and, left unchecked, can lead to sexual dysfunction.

References

• American Psychological Association
• Mental Health America
• Mayo Clinic