What Are the Weird Physical Symptoms of Anxiety?

Anxiety manifests in many different ways and doesn't always appear similar from person to person. Any physical symptom that doesn't seem to be a direct result may be a sign of anxiety.

When you're anxious your body releases stress hormones, which can cause all sorts of strange symptoms. Here are some of the strangest physical symptoms of anxiety

1. Heart palpitations

Heart palpitations are a feeling of a racing or pounding heart that can be felt in your chest, throat or neck. They could cause your heart to feel as if it's racing or fluttering. They typically last for only a few minutes or seconds. Heart palpitations are usually not indicative of a serious heart problem unless they occur in periods of exercise or stress. They could also be a result of certain medications, especially those which treat arrhythmias or high blood pressure.

It's normal to be anxious or nervous prior to any big presentation or test, and it's also natural to worry when someone close to you is sick. However, if you discover that you're always feeling these feelings of fear or anxiety, and they interfere with your day-to-day life, you may have an anxiety disorder.

Anxiety causes the body to release hormones that help us prepare for a fight or the flight response. These hormones can make us feel lightheaded or jittery, dizzy, sweaty, and make our hearts race. While anxiety is normal at times, those suffering from a generalized disorder can experience these symptoms nearly every day for at least six month.

It's possible to reduce heart anxiety symptoms palpitations that are caused by stress by practicing relaxation techniques and using medication. However, you should consult with your physician if you experience palpitations that do not have obvious causes, or if you're worried about an abnormal heart rhythm. In certain instances, your doctor will recommend that you get tests to determine the reason for your heart palpitations, including an electrocardiogram (ECG). They might prescribe beta blockers to regulate your heart rate and rhythm.

2. Shortness of breath

When you're feeling low in breath and sighing, or experiencing a tightness in your chest, it could be an indication that your body is going into panic mode. "With anxiety your body is constantly preparing itself for fight or fight," Zoe says. This includes triggering your heart rate and breathing rate to increase so that you can get more oxygen, pump more blood to your muscles, etc.

This could cause a sensation of being out of breath or having trouble breathing, especially when you're nervous and that's why many people with anxiety find themselves experiencing this sign. It's also an indication of experiencing a panic attack which is a sudden feeling of terror and fear that can peak within minutes (see below for a list of symptoms).

The pain in your chest could also be a sign that you have a heart condition. Always seek medical attention if you experience symptoms. However, if your symptoms are caused by anxiety, it's likely that they will fade when the anxiety-inducing situation has been resolved.

Another weird physical symptom of anxiety is a ringing in your ears, or tinnitus. It is usually a sign of anxiety disorders. It can be triggered when your sympathetic nervous system is activated, per the NHS.

When you are anxious you may also experience dry mouth and difficulty swallowing. This is because your body is sending fluids to the most important muscle groups to help you run or fight. This can also cause your mouth to dry and stale. This can lead you to develop bad breath. This condition can be treated by a good night's sleep and drinking plenty of fluids and working out regularly.

3. Sweating

It's difficult to pinpoint which symptoms are anxiety-related. Certain symptoms are psychological, such as a feeling anxious or nervous, whereas others are physical like breathing problems and a racing pulse. There are signs that could be both mental and physical like ringing in the ears or chest pain.

If you experience a weird sensation, the first thing to think about is whether it's caused by anxiety. Anxiety can mimic other health conditions, like headaches. It is important to rule them out before making any assumptions.

According to the NIMH, the body's response to anxiety is usually controlled by the nervous system. The nervous system is responsible for involuntary functions such as breathing and heartbeat. Stress or fear triggers this response, which triggers your adrenal glands to release stress hormones, like adrenaline and cortisol. This is a natural mechanism that is designed to guard us against dangerous or life-threatening situations.

However, when your brain is constantly thinking about the absurd fears or worries of future failure, embarrassment, loss or illness the hormones may get out of hand, leading to mild anxiety symptoms symptoms. This could cause sweating that can cause pit stains and palms that are wet or covered in a sticky substance and bad smells.

Fortunately, there are ways to deal with these bizarre, physical symptoms of anxiety. It is essential to concentrate on something else and distract yourself. "This can quite effectively end the cycle of symptoms and stop the spiral," Dr. Barsky says. Try a few deep breaths, a task that helps you relax (like listening to or reading music) or do some gentle exercise, like walking.

4. Muscle is twitching

The zings, fizzles and ever-so-light thumps of muscle twitching can be a bit disturbing, particularly when they occur all over the body. They can occur and disappear by themselves or last for weeks or days. These strange spasms, whether they are a minor localized twitch or a generalized one that involves many muscles or groups are usually thought to be one of the weird symptoms of anxiety.

The muscle twitching that occurs with anxiety is usually caused by the release of neurotransmitters, chemical that "tell" your muscles to move. This occurs because high anxiety triggers the nervous system's stress response. To reduce stress your body releases these neurotransmitters.

While the twitching is quite distracting, it is not an indication of a serious health condition. Muscle twitching is more common than people believe, and it can be caused by all sorts of things, from caffeine to stress to strenuous exercise. However, if you also suffer from other symptoms, such as muscle weakness or fatigue it's crucial to consult with a physician to ensure that there isn't a more serious problem.

Getting more rest and drinking plenty of water are two of the most effective methods to reduce anxiety-induced muscle twitching. Also, you should eat a diet full of magnesium, since the mineral can help relax muscles and reduce the twitching. It is also beneficial to practice relaxation methods like progressive muscle relaxation. This technique involves tensing and relaxing each muscle section of your body, starting from your head and moving down to your feet.

5. Headaches

Anxiety can trigger headaches or pressure around your eyes and head. When you're stressed and stressed, your muscles tighten up, especially in your shoulders and neck. Stress and hormonal changes can result in tight muscles that can lead to headaches or migraines. Strange sensations, such as tingling, numbness and pins and needles could be linked to anxiety. They can occur anywhere, but are most common in the extremities. They're usually the result of muscle tension or hyperventilation but can be triggered by certain foods, medication or anxiety itself.

If you experience these stress/anxiety symptoms frequently, it's time to visit your doctor. Your doctor will determine whether the symptoms are related to anxiety or something else, like stomach virus or another health condition.

In some cases, your doctor may prescribe anti-anxiety medications to help alleviate these physical symptoms. Sleeping better can reduce anxiety symptoms. Practicing deep breathing and relaxation exercises may be beneficial.

Anxiety can trigger a variety of bizarre and unanticipated physical symptoms, but understanding about them and recognizing they're a symptom of anxiety can help you overcome them. It's normal to be worried about things that cause anxiety, but if these worries start affecting your daily life or become chronic it's a good idea to talk to your doctor. They'll be able to assist you deal with your anxiety and get you back on the right track. Best of luck!