Physical Symptoms of Panic and Anxiety Disorders

Physical Symptoms of Panic and Anxiety Disorders Panic Disorder Symptoms Print Physical Symptoms of Panic Disorder and Anxiety These disorders often co-occur with other conditions By Katharina Star, PhD facebook linkedin Katharina Star, PhD, is an expert on anxiety and panic disorder. Dr. Star is a professional counselor, and she is trained in creative art therapies and mindfulness. Learn about our editorial policy Katharina Star, PhD Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on August 05, 2016 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on June 02, 2019 Science Photo Library/Getty Images More in Panic Disorder Symptoms Diagnosis Treatment Coping Related Conditions In This Article Table of Contents Expand Chest Pain Shortness of Breath Headaches and Migraines Irritable Bowel Syndrome Muscle Pain and Tension Muscle Pain and Tension View All Back To Top People diagnosed with anxiety disorders like panic disorder  often experience uncomfortable physical symptoms, including sweating, accelerated heart rate, shaking,  and trembling. Given the severity of these physical symptoms, its not surprising that many people with panic disorder seek emergency medical careâ€"one 2016 study reported that there were 1,247,000 anxiety-related ER visits annually. However, due to the complexity of the condition, the wide range of symptoms,  and the similarity to other illnesses, panic disorder is often misdiagnosed in emergency rooms. Hopefully, the following summary of common physical symptoms and co-occurring conditions associated with panic disorder and anxiety will make them easier to diagnose. Chest Pain Chest pain is one of the most frightening physical symptoms of panic attacks. This is also the symptom that most often sends panic disorder sufferers to the emergency room. When chest pain occurs during a panic attack, its not uncommon for the person to believe he or she is experiencing a medical emergency, such as a heart attack.?? Fortunately, panic attacks are typically not life-threatening. However, only a doctor or other medical professional is qualified to make a proper diagnosis and determine if a person’s chest pain is simply a symptom of a panic attack or is actually caused by a separate medical condition. Shortness of Breath Many people report that they find it difficult to breathe during a panic attack. Some describe it as a suffocating or smothering feeling; others say its more like a choking sensation. Regardless of how its described, shortness of breath can be a frightening experienceâ€"one that may lead to a fear of fainting or even death. This in turn only heightens panic and anxiety. Even though shortness of breath can be scary and upsetting, its often easily managed through the use of coping techniques, such as deep breathing exercises. Headaches and Migraines People with panic disorder are more prone to experiencing frequent headaches. Additionally, those diagnosed with panic disorder have also been found to suffer from the severe types of headaches known as migraines. Many people with panic disorder have reported that headaches and migraines often develop right after a panic attack.?? Treatment options for panic disorder and co-occurring headaches and migraines are available. Some medications used to treat panic disorder have been found to be a safe and effective way to also treat co-occurring headaches. However, some medications for panic disorder may actually be contributing to headaches. A doctor or other medical professional will be able to create a treatment plan to help you manage both conditions. The Link Between Migraines and Panic Attacks Irritable Bowel Syndrome Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a digestive disorder estimated to affect approximately 20% of U.S. adults. The symptoms of IBS include bloating, frequent stomachaches, diarrhea, cramping, and constipation. Studies have found that IBS is more prevalent among people with anxiety disorders, especially panic disorder. Both IBS and panic attacks involve a great deal of anticipatory anxiety, feelings of embarrassment, and avoidance behaviors. IBS and panic disorder have both been found to respond favorably to medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of these two treatment options. Could Irritable Bowel Syndrome Be a Cause of Your Anxiety? Muscle Pain and Tension Experiencing frequent feelings of fear, worry, and anxiety can impact the body by contributing to muscle pain and tightness. Muscle tension is a common problem for people with panic disorder. Typically, muscles become tense during a panic attack and can cause feelings of stiffness throughout the body, long after the attack has subsided. Muscle pain and discomfort can often be managed through relaxation techniques. Common activities that can help calm and relax the body include breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation,  and visualization. There are many self-help books that provide examples and instructions on these techniques. Yoga is an activity that includes many aspects of relaxation with the additional benefits of exercise for panic disorder. Yoga classes can be found at local studios, gyms, and community centers. Can Yoga Help Anxiety and Panic Disorder? Tiredness and Insomnia Chronic worry, simply put, is exhausting, so its typical for people with anxiety disorders like panic disorderâ€"which often creates a cycle of fear about having another panic attackâ€"to be fatigued. But sometimes the worry or other physical symptoms of anxiety make it difficult either to fall or  stay asleep. In the short-term, this can take a toll on other aspects of physical and psychological well-being. For people experiencing even mild sleep disruptions, anxiety treatment is likely to involve changes to the bedtime routine.