Information From Your Health Care Provider

ANXIETY DISORDER, GENERALIZED

Basic information

description

Generalized anxiety disorder is an illness that involves constant worry even though little or nothing is wrong. A person feels tense most of the time and always expects the worst to happen. They may worry about health, money, family, work, or an unknown or unspecified threat. Symptoms may be severe and interfere with daily living. Attempts to avoid the anxiety lead to more anxiety. Anxiety comes on slowly and can start in childhood, teens, or as an adult. It occurs more in women.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Feeling that something undesirable or harmful is about to happen.
Constant worry about things (big and small).
Aches and pains for unknown reasons.
Feeling tired.
Unable to relax.
Muscle tension, headaches, backache.
Trouble falling or staying asleep.
Dry mouth, swallowing difficulty, or hoarseness.
Twitching or trembling.
Unable to focus or concentrate.
Feeling irritable or grouchy.
Nausea, diarrhea, weight loss.
Sweating or hot flashes.
Easily startled.

causes

It is most likely a combination of hereditary factors, environmental factors (such as childhood experiences), and chemical disturbances in the brain.

risk increases with

Women.
Stressful events or crisis in one's life.
Family history of anxiety disorders.
Other emotional or mental illness (depression, panic disorder, phobias, or dysthymia).
Medical illness (e.g., chronic pain, asthma, or others).
Alcohol or substance abuse.
Lack of social connections.
Certain personality factors (being shy or a worrier).
Living in poverty, in a minority group, or immigrants.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

There are no specific preventive measures.

expected outcomes

Anxiety can be controlled with treatment. Overcoming anxiety often results in a richer, more satisfying life.

possible complications

Impaired social and work functioning.
Depression, panic disorder, or social phobia.
Dependence on drugs or alcohol.

diagnosis & treatment

general measures

Your health care provider will do a physical exam and ask questions about your symptoms. A mental health test may be done. There is no specific test to diagnose anxiety. Medical tests may be done to rule out other medical disorders.
Treatment may involve psychotherapy (treatment of emotional and mental problems), self-care, and drugs.
Cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) is often recommended. Cognitive therapy teaches how to change thoughts, behaviors, or attitudes. Behavior therapy teaches ways to reduce anxiety with deep breathing and muscle relaxation.
Self-care steps may include:
- Talking to a friend or family member about your feelings. This sometimes defuses your anxiety.
- Keeping a journal about your anxious thoughts or emotions. Consider the causes and possible solutions.
- Joining a self-help group.
- Learning relaxation techniques. For some people, meditation is effective.
- Reducing stress in your life where possible.
To learn more: National Institute of Mental Health; 6001 Executive Blvd, Bethesda, MD 20892-9663; (800) 647-2642; website: www.nimh.nih.gov.

medications

Antianxiety drugs may be prescribed.
Antidepressants may be prescribed.

activity

Stay active. Physical exertion helps reduce anxiety.

diet

No special diet. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.

notify our office if

You or a family member has symptoms of anxiety.
Symptoms recur after treatment.