9 Physical Symptoms of Anxiety That Are Common Yet Should Not Be Overlooked

My unresolved condition used to turn every day into a battle. I was perpetually drained from trying to cope with an underlying sense of dread that I attributed to everything else but the real culprit—my anxiety. It wasn’t until I started experiencing physical symptoms that I finally sought help.

It wasn’t a fleeting moment of panic that pushed me to seek treatment. No, it was an ongoing struggle to take a deep breath. I was pacing in my office, feeling frantic as I quietly urged myself to breathe, but nothing worked. I couldn’t get a full breath, whether I was standing, sitting in meditation, or lying down in bed.

This was just one way my anxiety manifested, and it’s important to note that symptoms can range from slightly bothersome to dangerously severe. You don’t have to wait until things escalate to seek support. If you recognize any of these symptoms without a clear cause, reaching out to a healthcare provider is a wise step.

How Anxiety Can Physically Manifest

Increased Heart Rate
Your brain kicks your body into high gear in response to perceived danger. However, if you frequently feel as if you’re in a life-threatening situation when you’re just sitting quietly, it’s time to talk to your doctor.
Chills or Excessive Sweating
Sweaty palms before a big event are common, but experiencing sudden hot and cold flashes without any illness or hormonal changes is not normal.
Difficulty Breathing
Breathing is essential, and feeling short of breath can worsen anxiety. While deep breathing can help, the inability to take full breaths can create a vicious cycle of anxiety.
Digestive Issues
Feeling queasy or having an upset stomach? Anxiety can significantly impact your digestive health, causing constipation, diarrhea, or other discomforts.
Burning Sensations or Sharp Pains
Imagine the pain of a sunburn without the sun. This unusual symptom can occur due to the connection between your nervous system and the rest of your body, signaling that something is off.
Chest Tightness
When anxious, your heart works harder, leading to tightness or pain in your chest. This can happen as your body prepares to respond to perceived threats.
Phantom Ringing in the Ears
This sensation can feel like you’re hearing everything in slow motion, even in the absence of any real noise. This heightened awareness is your nervous system protecting you from perceived threats.
Blurred Vision
Blurred vision can occur as your body prepares for a fight-or-flight response, ironically making it harder to see clearly.
Low-Level Shaking
This sensation can feel like a subtle tremor throughout your body, primarily in your hands. It can be a result of prolonged adrenaline release from your fight-or-flight response.

Don’t Suffer in Silence

These nine symptoms are not exhaustive. Everyone’s experience with anxiety is unique, but if you notice any of these without a clear reason, it’s essential to discuss it with your doctor. Mental health challenges may be invisible, but their effects are very real. No one should endure this alone, and seeking help can lead to improvement.

For more information on coping strategies, check out this blog post or learn about artificial insemination options at Make a Mom, an authority on the subject. Additionally, for those considering fertility treatments, March of Dimes offers excellent resources.

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Summary:

This article discusses common physical symptoms of anxiety, highlighting the importance of recognizing and addressing them. Symptoms range from increased heart rate and difficulty breathing to digestive issues and blurred vision. If you experience these signs without a clear cause, consulting a healthcare provider is crucial for your well-being.