Disorders & Medication Anxiety Everybody experiences some level of anxiety and it often improves a person’s performance.However,when anxiety is severe it is detrimental to a person’s health and impairs normal functioning.Anxiety is a type of fear brought on by the thought of something,rather than of experiencing an event.It is usually out of all proportion to the ‘problem’ in mind and may be long lasting. It is estimated that up to 14% of the population experience chronic anxiety and is more prevalent in woman.There is a genetic predisposition to anxiety in some people.Sufferers from anxiety often experience physical symptoms such as sweating ,palpitations,tremor,dry mouth and gatrointestional upset. Psychological symptoms include a fear of dying and losing control,a lack of concentration,restlessness,tiredness,depression and feeling on edge. Social factors are important and stressful life events can trigger an anxiety attack.There are several types of anxiety and it can be a consequence of physical illness.A phobic anxiety state has a recognizable cause e.g. an impending exam or difficult relationship.The nonphobic variety of anxiety does not have an obviously recognisable cause.Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) post traumatic stress disorder are also a form of anxiety. Drug treatment is often not necessary and self help groups enable a lot of people to cope.Yoga and relaxation techniques have also been found to be of assistance.Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and counselling are helpful in more severe cases of anxiety.Benzodiazepines such as diazepam,lorazepam and chlordiazepoxide are effective in the short term treatment of anxiety,but as they are addictive their long term use is questionable.Other drugs have been used in the treatment of anxiety such as some tricyclic anti-depressants and SSRI's(Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) including fluoxetine (Prozac) and piroxetine (Seroxat).Severe anxiety can be disabling and if it impairs daily functioning it is advisable to get professional help and advice. Back to the Disorders & Medication menu