Empower yourself by knowing these common physical symptoms and co-occurring conditions associated with panic disorder and anxiety.
While anxiety conditions are widespread, they often go undiagnosed or untreated.
Muscle tension is a common problem for people with panic disorder.
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Muscle pain and discomfort can often be managed throughrelaxation techniques.
Exercises that can help calm and relax the body include breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization.
Yoga is an activity that includes many aspects of relaxation with the additional benefits ofexercise for panic disorder.
Chest Pain
Chest pain is one of the most frightening physical symptoms of panic attacks.
This is also the symptom that most often sends people with panic disorder to the emergency room.
Fortunately, panic attacks are typically not life-threatening.
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 it’s more like a choking sensation.
This, in turn only, heightens panic and anxiety.
Headaches and Migraines
People with panic disorder are more prone to experiencing headaches.
Additionally, those diagnosed with panic disorder have also been found to experience migraines and other severe headaches.
Many people with panic disorder have reported that headaches and migraines often develop right after a panic attack.
Treatment options for panic disorderand co-occurring headaches and migraines are available.
However, somemedications for panic disordermay actually contribute to headaches.
Talk to your doctor about a treatment plan to help you manage both conditions.
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.
Both IBS and panic attacks involve a great deal ofanticipatory anxiety, feelings of embarrassment, and avoidance behaviors.
Sometimes worry or other anxiety symptoms make falling or staying asleep difficult.
This can then 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.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
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American Psychiatric Association.Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.5th edition.
