Anxiety Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

Psychological symptoms may include:

Worry or dread
Obsessive or intrusive thoughts
Sense of imminent danger or catastrophe
Fear or panic
Restlessness
Irritability
Impatience
Ambivalence
Trouble concentrating

Physical symptoms may include:

Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Sweating, especially the palms
Dry mouth
Flushing or blushing
Muscle tension
Shortness of breath
Lightheadedness or faintness
Difficulty sleeping
Shaking
Choking sensation
Frequent urination
Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhea
Constipation
Feeling of "butterflies" in the stomach
Sexual difficulties
Tingling sensations
Nail biting or other habitual behavior

Symptoms of Anxiety

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A psychiatric evaluation will be done. Your doctor may also perform a physical exam and diagnostic tests. Usually the results of these tests are normal. You may be referred to a psychotherapist for further evaluation.

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