Conditions · FAQ
What symptoms can anxiety cause in the mind and body?
Short answer
Anxiety can cause ongoing worry, restlessness, irritability, trouble focusing, and poor sleep. Physical symptoms may include a racing heart, muscle tension, sweating, shaking, or stomach upset. These symptoms can have other causes, so a physician should review new, severe, or unexplained symptoms rather than assuming they are anxiety.
Anxiety can affect both your thoughts and your body. You may feel on edge, expect something bad to happen, or struggle to stop worrying. Some people avoid situations because they fear feeling anxious, embarrassed, or unable to escape. Others notice trouble focusing or making everyday decisions.
Physical symptoms can include tense muscles, headaches, sweating, shaking, nausea, or a fast heartbeat. Sleep may be hard to start or stay in. Symptoms may come and go or continue through much of the day. Keeping a brief record of symptoms and possible triggers can help during your visit.
These symptoms do not prove that you have an anxiety disorder. Thyroid problems, heart conditions, sleep disorders, medications, and substances can cause similar symptoms. A physician may recommend an exam or tests based on your history.
Do not assume new chest pain, fainting, or severe trouble breathing is anxiety. Seek urgent medical care. Call 911 for symptoms that may signal a medical emergency.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.