(Other symptoms: restlessness, sleep problems, tremors, heat intolerance and weight loss.) The female hormone estrogen can also prompt anxiety when the menstrual cycle fluctuates and during menopause. Parathyroid and adrenal gland conditions can trigger anxiety, too. H (hormones): Thyroid problems are among the most common medical causes of anxiety, either because the gland is overactive ( hyperthyroidism) or underactive ( hypothyroidism). Adrenal gland tumors ( pheochromocytomas) produce excess adrenaline, which can trigger anxiety, along with headache. T (tumors): Brain tumors cause a wide range of psychological symptoms, including anxiety, personality changes and hallucinations, along with physical symptoms. Anxiety surfaces later in life (anxiety disorders usually begin in childhood or early adulthood)Ī useful mnemonic device, “THINC MED,” developed by Georgetown University psychiatrist Robert Hedeya, MD, helps doctors determine potential medical causes of anxiety:.You can’t provide a clear history of your condition.Your physical exam or vital signs are suddenly abnormal.You’ve experienced disorientation or memory loss.The anxiety came on recently and rapidly, versus gradually.You’ve experienced no recent major life changes.No one in your family has had an anxiety/other mood disorder.You haven’t suffered from anxiety in the past.
Your doctor may suspect an underlying medical condition if your exam and history reveal clues such as: adults and children every year.īecause the physical symptoms often overshadow the psychological, and because medical conditions and anxiety often coexist, establishing a diagnosis can be difficult. Anxiety: A widespread problemĪnxiety disorders are the most common psychiatric problem, affecting over 20 million U.S. A visit with your doctor to explore this possibility can help to uncover the reason for your newly anxious feelings. When anxiety surfaces for the first time in adulthood, an underlying medical problem may be the cause. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Advertising on our site helps support our mission.
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