From time to time, people may experience some anxiety about their family, work and personal life. Small amount of anxiety can be a motivation to get work done, but too much anxiety can lead to more health problems. In addition, certain medications can also result in anxiety symptoms. Anxiety symptoms can affect a person's physical well-being, such as headaches and gastrointestinal problems. When anxiety symptoms are left untreated, they can result in more severe mental health problems, or develop into an anxiety disorder.
Anxiety Disorders
For many people, their level of anxiety interferes in their ability to function in everyday life. According to the National Institutes of Health, this qualifies as an anxiety disorder. Patients who have an anxiety disorder suffer from severe symptoms that last for at least two weeks; though for most patients, symptoms last a lot longer. Examples of anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and specific and social phobias.
Physical Symptoms
Some people who suffer from anxiety have physical symptoms, according to the National Institutes of Health. As a result of anxiety, patient can have twitching, trembling, muscle tension, headaches, sweating, dry mouth, difficulty swallowing and abdominal stress.
Other Symptoms
According to the National Institutes of Health, other symptoms besides the physical symptoms can result from anxiety. Examples include dizziness, rapid or irregular heart beat, rapid breathing, diarrhea or frequent need to urinate, fatigue, irritability or loss of temper, sleeping difficulties and nightmares, decreased concentration and sexual problems. However, it is important to note that not all anxiety sufferers will have the same symptoms. Once the anxiety subsides, the anxiety symptoms should go away as well.
Drugs That Cause Anxiety
Not all anxiety is caused by stress. For some people, their anxiety is a result of certain drugs, both prescription drugs and illegal drugs. According to the National Institutes of Health, ADHD medications, alcohol, amphetamines, bronchodilators, caffeine, cocaine, cold remedies, decongestants, diet pills, nicotine, thyroid medications and tricyclic antidepressants can all result in anxiety symptoms. If a prescription medication is causing anxiety symptoms, the patient's doctor may switch the patient to another medication.
Mental Health Problems
Anxiety symptoms, when left untreated, can result in more severe mental health problems. According to the National Institutes of Health, excessive anxiety can cause delayed healing with infections, heart disease, depression, overeating, and abuse of alcohol and drugs. Additional treatment may be necessary if these conditions are developed.
