Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States, according to the Anxiety Disorders Association of America. When a person experiences anxiety, the mind sends a signal to the body that danger is present. Several physical reactions can then result, according to Dr. Harry Croft, medical director of HealthyPlace.com.
Fight or Flight
The fight-or-flight response is one way people experience anxiety. The body prepares to either fight the perceived danger or run from it, which results in many physiological symptoms. An increased heart rate, heart palpitations and difficulty breathing are common. Digestive issues like nausea or vomiting, indigestion, constipation, diarrhea or frequent urination can also occur.
Tension
Anxiety can also produce actual pain. People who are feeling anxious have a tendency to unconsciously tense their muscles, according to Croft, which can cause chest pain, headache, backache, sore jaw, neck ache, sciatica and other muscle aches and pains.
Dissociation
When experiencing intense anxiety, the mind can dissociate itself from the body as a defense mechanism. A person can go into another state of consciousness and have distorted sensory experiences, says Croft. An individual in this state can feel detached from his body or feel that what is happening is not real. Vision or hearing changes, including a sensitivity to light and sound, are common. Temporary paralysis can also occur in extreme cases.
Other Symptoms
Several other physiological symptoms can occur with anxiety. Hot or cold flashes, shaking, trembling, insomnia, excessive sweating, dizziness, flushing, exhaustion, changes in appetite, changes in libido, irritability, mood swings and difficulty concentrating are all possible physical symptoms that could accompany an anxiety attack. Since many of these physical symptoms often occur simultaneously, many people mistakenly conclude that a medical condition is to blame, according to HelpGuide.org. However, by recognizing anxiety's physiological symptoms, a person can avoid numerous doctor visits and seek out treatment instead for the anxiety at the root of the problem.
