Anxiety disorder
Key points
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is characterized by a pattern of frequent, persistent worry and anxiety, about several different events or activities.
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a common condition.
- A physical examination and a psychological evaluation should be completed in order to rule out other causes of anxiety.
- Treatment may involve specific medications that provide a sedative (sleep-inducing) or calming effect.
Alternative names
GAD; Generalized anxiety disorder
Definition
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is characterized by a pattern of frequent, persistent worry and anxiety, about several different events or activities. The symptoms last at least 6 months.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a common condition. It is characterized by excessive anxiety and worry, which is out of proportion to the impact of the event or circumstance that is the focus of the worry.
For example, while college students often worry about tests, a student who constantly worries about failure - despite getting consistently good grades - has the pattern of worry typical of this disorder.
The person finds it difficult to control the worry. The cause of GAD is not known, but biological and psychological factors play a role. Stressful life situations or maladaptive behavior, acquired through learning, may also contribute to GAD.
The disorder may start at any time in life, including childhood. Most patients with the disorder report that they have been anxious for as long as they can remember. GAD occurs somewhat more often in women than in men.
Symptoms
Anxiety and worry are often associated with the following symptoms:
- Restlessness or feeling keyed up or "on the edge"
- Being easily fatigued
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Muscle tension - shakiness, headaches
- Sleep disturbance (difficulty falling or staying asleep; or restless, unsatisfying sleep)
- Excessive sweating, palpitations, shortness of breath, and various gastrointestinal symptoms
Signs and tests
A physical examination and a psychological evaluation should be completed in order to rule out other causes of anxiety. Physical disorders that may mimic an anxiety state should be ruled out, as well as drug-induced symptoms. Various diagnostic tests may be done in this process.
Treatment
Treatment may involve specific medications that provide a sedative (sleep-inducing) or calming effect. Other drugs that have the favorable side effect of reducing anxiety may be used, such as antihistamines. A common class of anti-anxiety medications, benzodiazepines, are used with caution because they can impair judgment and have a high potential for addiction.
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
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