Anxiety comes in many forms, from occasional episodes of everyday anxiety to generalized anxiety disorder and social anxiety disorder. Stress and anxiety are different but closely related, and the effects are often the same. Whatever the type or source, one thing is certain: anxiety can have negative effects on health. Those effects can be temporary, lasting just as long as an anxiety attack, or they can have long-term consequences for your health if anxiety is left untreated by medical professionals.
Blood Pressure
Anxiety can raise your blood pressure significantly. MayoClinic.com points out that anxiety doesn't actually cause hypertension (chronic high blood pressure), but the long-term effects of anxiety on blood pressure can end up being the same as those of hypertension. Frequent blood pressure elevations from anxiety episodes can cause damage to your heart, circulatory system and kidneys.
Pain
From a slight, nagging ache to severe pounding, headaches are common effects of anxiety. According to "The New York Times," there may be a link between stress and anxiety and back pain, although further research is needed. The pain from conditions like arthritis can be magnified during an anxiety attack, and aching muscles are a common symptom.
Sleep Problems
Insomnia is a common effect of anxiety. You may have trouble falling asleep or you may wake up frequently during the night. Long-term sleep problems can have serious health effects, such as lowering the effectiveness of the immune system and increasing the risk for heart disease and hypertension.
Digestive Problems
"The New York Times" reports that there is a strong link between stress, irritable bowel syndrome and sleep problems, and that anxiety can only make these problems worse. Anxiety-caused digestive problems can be as mild as an upset stomach or as severe as extreme nausea. Cramping and bloating are other physical symptoms of anxiety.
Other
Both general anxiety disorder and social anxiety disorder can lead to depression. Anxiety is also known to trigger substance abuse, which in turn can cause a host of health problems. MayoClinic.com also states that teeth grinding can be a symptom of anxiety.
