9 Common Physical Symptoms of Anxiety That Should Not Be Overlooked

For a long time, I struggled with an invisible illness that turned my daily life into a relentless battle. I was perpetually drained from trying to mask that persistent, low-grade unease that I attributed to everything except its true source: anxiety. It wasn’t until my anxiety began to show itself physically that I finally sought help.

It wasn’t a sudden panic attack or fleeting worry that pushed me to my limit. No, it was the constant inability to take a full, satisfying breath. I wasn’t just sighing or feeling slightly breathless; I genuinely found it impossible to fill my lungs completely. I would pace around my office, appearing frantic, whispering to myself to just breathe, but nothing worked. Not while standing, meditating, or even lying down in bed before sleep.

This wasn’t the first time, nor would it be the last, that my anxiety manifested in physical ways. Symptoms can range from mildly annoying to potentially hazardous, but you don’t have to wait for things to spiral out of control before seeking support. If you’ve experienced any of the following symptoms without a clear cause or suspect you might be dealing with mental health challenges, reach out to your healthcare provider.

How Anxiety Can Physically Manifest

Increased Heart Rate
We all recognize the fight-or-flight response. When faced with danger, our brain signals our body to gear up and escape. However, what happens when you feel threatened without any real danger? If your heart races as if you’re running a marathon while seated and overwhelmed, it’s crucial to discuss this with your doctor.
Chills or Excessive Sweating
Sweaty palms during a first date? Totally relatable. But experiencing sudden hot and cold sensations when you’re not ill or facing hormonal changes is not normal.
Breathlessness
Breathing is vital, and feeling short of breath can heighten anxiety levels. Deep breathing exercises can help, but if you find it hard to take those deep breaths, it can create a vicious cycle of anxiety.
Digestive Issues
From nausea to constipation or diarrhea, anxiety can wreak havoc on your digestive system. Feeling anxious can twist your stomach into knots, impacting your overall digestive health.
Burning Sensations or Sharp Pains
Imagine the pain of a sunburn without any sun exposure. Experiencing skin sensitivity or unexplained sharp pains can be linked to anxiety. Your nervous system’s communication with your body can lead to these discomforts.
Chest Tightness
Anxiety causes your body to prepare for perceived threats, making your heart work harder and possibly creating tightness or pain in your chest.
Phantom Noises
Picture the moments before an explosion in a movie: everything slows down and your senses heighten. This exaggerated hearing can be a result of your nervous system perceiving threats.
Blurred Vision
Similar to other symptoms, blurred vision can occur as your body prepares for action. Ironically, your eyes may lose clarity even as you try to focus on potential dangers that aren’t there.
Subtle Shaking
If you’ve never felt it, it’s hard to describe, but it’s as if your body vibrates slightly. This sensation often arises from prolonged adrenaline surges related to anxiety.

Don’t Stay Silent About Your Struggles

These nine symptoms are not exhaustive. Everyone’s experience with anxiety is unique, but if you encounter any of these symptoms without a clear explanation, it’s worth discussing with your doctor. Just because mental health issues are often invisible doesn’t mean they lack real effects. No one should endure these challenges alone.

Please remember, things can improve once you start prioritizing self-care. It’s not selfish to take care of yourself; you can’t help others when you’re running on empty. For more insights, check out this other blog post here. If you’re looking for expert advice, visit Make A Mom for authoritative information. Additionally, Resolve offers excellent resources for anyone navigating pregnancy and home insemination.

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Summary

Anxiety can lead to various physical symptoms, including rapid heart rate, breathlessness, and digestive issues. While these manifestations may seem normal to some, they should never be ignored. Seeking help and practicing self-care are crucial for managing anxiety effectively.

Keyphrase: Anxiety symptoms
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