How Anxiety Affects the Body
Anxiety is a natural human response to stress, and it can affect the body in many different ways. When you feel anxious, your body goes into “fight or flight” mode, which is a physiological response to perceived danger. This response can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including:
- Rapid heart rate
- Increased blood pressure
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Trembling or shaking
- Sweating
- Upset stomach
- Dry mouth
- Muscle tension
These symptoms can be uncomfortable and distressing, but they are typically temporary and will resolve once the anxiety-provoking situation has passed. However, chronic anxiety can lead to long-term physical health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and gastrointestinal problems. It’s important to take anxiety seriously and to seek help if it is interfering with your daily life.
Did you know anxiety disorders are more common than depression in the U.S? Anxiety has both an emotional and brain-body/neurological component, and is often associated with low levels of serotonin. Neurotransmitters control movement, heart rate, thinking, sleep, mood, and reasoning.
What is the primary function of serotonin? How are serotonin levels an important factor in both anxiety and depression?
Stanford Hospital – Stress Affects Body
Beyond Stress and Anxiety: How Stress Affects the Body and What You Can Do to Manage It.
