Anxiety

If you struggle with feelings of fear in situations that don’t bother other people, anxiety may be to blame. At Expanded Health in Lutz, Florida, primary care specialists diagnose and treat anxiety to help you relax and enjoy life to its fullest. Call Expanded Health to schedule an appointment or request one online today.

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is a type of mental health disorder that causes excessive fear or worry about everyday situations that don’t bother most other people. You might feel fearful about bad things happening, worry about things you do or say, or feel uncomfortable in social situations. Treatment from Expanded Health can improve your quality of life.

What are the symptoms of anxiety?

Common signs and symptoms of anxiety include:

• Nervousness and anxiousness
• Feeling tense or restless
• Rapid breathing
• A sense of panic, doom, or danger
• Increased heart rate
• Trembling
• Sweating
• Fatigue
• Difficulty sleeping
• Problems concentrating
• Avoiding anxiety triggers
• Difficulty controlling worry or fear
• Gastrointestinal problems
• Suicidal thoughts

Depression, or ongoing sadness, often accompanies anxiety. Because of anxiety, you might misuse drugs or alcohol, experience social isolation, have chronic headaches or other aches and pains, or experience difficulty at work or school.

What are the risk factors for anxiety?

Anxiety is common and can happen to anyone, but some things boost your risk of developing it. Examples include:

• Childhood trauma
• Ongoing illnesses
• Stress buildup
• Family history of anxiety disorders
• Other mental health disorders
• Drug or alcohol use

At the first sign of anxiety that negatively interferes with everyday life, visit Expanded Health for an evaluation. 

How does my doctor diagnose anxiety?

Your specialist can diagnose anxiety after reviewing your medical history and asking about your symptoms. They complete a physical exam and psychiatric assessment to get a better idea about the type of mental health condition you struggle with. If you have anxiety, they provide treatment to help you live a better life.

What are common treatments for anxiety?

If you have anxiety, your doctor may suggest one or more of the following treatments:

Lifestyle changes

Adopting healthy lifestyle habits is one of the best ways to reduce feelings of anxiousness. Stay physically active, develop a routine, avoid alcohol and recreational drugs, don’t smoke, and keep stress levels low using relaxation techniques. Get plenty of sleep, eat nutritious foods, and maintain a healthy weight.

Medications

Taking certain medications can reduce anxiety and/or depression to help you cope better in everyday situations.

Counseling

Psychiatric counseling (talk therapy) for anxiety often includes cognitive-behavioral therapy and other types of counseling that teach you ways to cope with your condition.

Don’t let anxiety take control of your life when simple treatments can reduce unpleasant symptoms. Call the Expanded Health office to schedule an appointment or book one online today.