Anxiety – what is it?
Anxiety is an unpleasant emotional state ranging from mild unease to intense fear. Some symptoms may include:
- Increased heart rate
- Throbbing or stabbing pains in the chest
- Tightness in the chest or inability to take in air
- Muscle tension in the back and neck, muscle spasms
- Headache
- Excessive perspiration
- Dryness of the mouth
- Dizziness
- Digestive disturbances
- Urinary urgency
- Sudden dread or fear
In its most severe form, these symptoms may combine and onset suddenly, causing what is known as a “panic attack”.
The most common biochemical disturbance in anxiety is an elevated lactate level. This is normally due to lack of oxygen (also the common cause of muscle soreness after intense exercise).
Stress management therapies are useful in learning to deal with anxiety. These may include breathing techniques, mediation and exercise. Your GP or healthcare practitioner is the first point of contact to talk about stress management.
Eliminating or reducing stress factors such as overwork and relationship problems should also be investigated, as well as encouraging positive thought patterns.
Nutritional solutions
Stimulants such as alcohol, caffeine, sugar and nicotine can all
contribute to lactate production and worsen stress. Avoidance is
recommended.
B Vitamins play an important role in managing levels of stress hormones in the body. Studies have shown people with anxiety often have B vitamin deficiencies. Minerals such as calcium and magnesium, and Omega 3 fatty acids are all needed in the body for healthy nerves.
Modern lifestyles can often encourage poor nutrition so when the diet is inadequate, a supplement may be appropriate.
Natural, herbal sedatives such as Valerian and Hops may be of value.
These remedies are effective for mild stress and tension and do
not have the sedating side-effects and abuse potential of prescription
drugs.
References
Available on request.
This material is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist, please contact your healthcare professional.
