Anxiety is both a medical condition and a state of nerves and tension. Most individuals will experience the latter as part of usual life, and such feelings can be exacerbated by smoking, drinking coffee, missing meals and drinking, but it is possible that this becomes a chronic and debilitating condition. This will usually be caused by psychological or psychiatric problems beyond the control of the individual, rather than by physical illness, and is often associated with Depression. Anxiety, however, may be an indication of a serious physical condition.

Possible Conditions

• Alcohol or Narcotics
• Caffeine
• Dementia
• Cluster Headache
• Depression and Manic Depression
• Hyperthyroidism
• Hyperventilation
• Low Blood Sugar
• Post-Viral Syndrome
• Shock
• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Anxiety Symptoms

• Dry Mouth
• May be rapid, over-breathing (hyperventilation)
• Increased heart rate and extra beats: thumping of heart and palpitations
• Stiffness in the neck and into the shoulders
• Pressure, like a band, around the head or headache
• Tingling of hands, feet and around the mouth
• Feelings of dizziness or giddiness
• With long-term anxiety or severe stress, it is possible that menstruation can stop. This is not uncommon, but if it lasts longer than six months, medical help should be sought to exclude disease or cancer

Most individuals will experience a certain amount of Anxiety, Emotion and Stress from time to time. If this becomes difficult to cope with, there are many strategies, such as relaxation, counseling to explore the source of Anxiety, or medical treatments.