Anxiety is a normal and often healthy emotion. However, when a person regularly feels disproportionate levels of anxiety, it might become a medical disorder. Anxiety is a feeling of unease, such as worry or fear, that can be mild or severe. Anxiety disorders form a category of mental health diagnoses, and are characterized by feelings of anxiety and physical symptoms. Anxiety is a normal and often healthy emotion. However, when a person regularly feels disproportionate levels of anxiety, it might become a medical disorder. Anxiety disorders form a category of mental health diagnoses, and are characterized by feelings of anxiety and physical symptoms. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health disorders in the United States.

 

Symptoms of anxiety

·        Persistent worrying or obsessing about normal, everyday events

·        Difficulty relaxing

·        Physical symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat, sweating, or trembling

·        Avoiding certain situations or activities because they trigger anxiety

·        Difficulty sleeping

·        Difficulty concentrating

·        Anxiety disorders can be treated with therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

Causes of Anxiety:

Anxiety attacks, also known as panic attacks, can have many different causes. Some common causes include:

Genetics: Anxiety disorders can run in families and may be inherited.

Trauma: Traumatic events such as abuse, neglect, or a traumatic accident can lead to anxiety disorders.

Environmental factors: Exposure to violence, poverty, or a traumatic event can increase the risk of anxiety disorders.

Medical conditions: Some medical conditions such as thyroid problems, heart disease, or diabetes can cause anxiety symptoms.

Substance use: Alcohol or drug abuse can cause anxiety symptoms.

Life changes: Significant life changes such as the loss of a loved one, a divorce, or a job loss can cause anxiety symptoms.

Chronic stress: Chronic stress from work, school, or other sources can lead to anxiety disorders.

Hormonal imbalances: changes in hormones levels caused by pregnancy, menopause or certain medications can also trigger anxiety.

It’s worth noting that many people have more than one cause for their anxiety, and it’s often a combination of factors that contribute to anxiety disorder. If you’re experiencing anxiety attacks, it’s important to talk to a healthcare professional to determine the cause and develop an effective treatment plan.

 

How to avoid anxiety:

There are several ways to reduce anxiety. Some strategies include:

 

·        Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga.

·        Exercising regularly to boost endorphins and promote overall well-being.

·        Identifying and challenging negative thoughts and beliefs.

·        Setting realistic goals and focusing on things you can control.

·        Talking to a therapist or counselor who can provide support and guidance.

·        Avoiding or limiting caffeine and alcohol consumption.

·        Getting enough sleep and maintaining a healthy diet.

·        Trying to stay in present moment and not dwelling on past or future events

It’s important to note that what works for one person may not work for another, so it may take some experimentation to find the strategies that work best for you.

 

ICD-10 anxiety

 

In the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10), anxiety is classified under the codes F41.0-F41.9. These codes include various specific types of anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder (F41.1), panic disorder (F41.0), and social anxiety disorder (F40.1). The exact code used would depend on the specific diagnosis made by a healthcare professional.