Anxiety has full-range ramifications, affecting behavior and in some cases even producing physical symptoms. While mild anxiety is uncomfortable, severe anxiety can be debilitating and greatly interfere with one's ability to function. Understanding the causes of behavioral anxiety can be an important first step toward managing this condition and identifying actions to prevent interference with daily life.
Life Stressors
In addition to the role personality plays in the ability to cope with anxiety, life stressors often trigger anxiety. The University of Maryland Medical System notes the potential link between exposure to extreme stressors like abuse, violence or poverty and the susceptibility toward anxiety disorders.
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions can cause anxiety, exacerbate it, or cause symptoms that mimic it, according to Dr. Srini Pillay, Director of McLean Hospital's Panic Disorders Research Program. In an interview on ABC.com, Dr. Pillay says that chronic heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, hypoglycemia and electrolyte abnormalities may cause condition with anxiety-type symptoms. In addition, patients with migraines and seizures may also present with anxiety disorders.
Substance Abuse
While many people with anxiety disorders abuse alcohol or drugs, it is also true that this abuse and substance dependency can cause anxiety. According to the University of Maryland Medical System, withdrawal from alcohol can cause symptoms that mimic those of a panic attack, as can amphetamine abuse.
Genetics
Evidence suggests anxiety disorders have a genetic component, according to the University of Maryland Medical System. Studies of twins show that if an identical twin with the same DNA has an anxiety disorder, the other twin is more likely to have it than would be the case if the twins were fraternal.
Medications
Drugs for treating conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes and thyroid disorders, along with certain herbal supplements, can produce anxiety symptoms according to Helpguide.org. Furthermore, the University of Maryland Medical system notes that withdrawal from certain medications, particularly those used to treat sleep disorders, can cause anxiety symptoms.
References
- Medical News Today: What is Anxiety: What Causes Anxiety? What To Do About It.
- Helpguide.org: Anxiety Attacks and Disorders
- University of Maryland Medical System: Anxiety Disorders - Causes
- University of Maryland Medical System: Anxiety Disorders - Diagnosis
- ABC News: Can An Anxiety Disorder Be Associated With Any Medical Conditions?
