Anxiety

Definition: an apprehension of danger and dread. It must be differentiated from depression.

Causes: while some anxiety is due to emotional factors, sometimes it is in response to other conditions such as heart problems, hormonal problems, respiratory problems, or neurological problems.

Signs and symptoms: Those with anxiety have an abnormal fear or dread of future events. Symptoms in addition to fear include difficulty in concentration, rapid heart beat, rapid breathing, palpitations, tremor, sweating, difficulty sleeping, and sometimes irritability.

Treatment:

After ruling out and treating any underlying problems, various medications such as Ativan and Xanax have helped. Sometimes anti-depressant medications help. Counseling is also helpful.

The herbs kava, valerian, and St. John’s wort have been shown in some studies to help with anxiety disorders. Kava can safely be used for up to six months without disruption, but avoid taking it without a physician’s supervision if you are on Valium or like medications. Selenium and essential fatty acids such as in fish oils are also helpful. Acupuncture and meditation are also helpful in dealing with anxiety disorders.

Prevention:

Good general health habits will help with anxiety disorders, and refraining from refined sugars/carbohydrates by eating a low glycemic index diet helps.

Reference:

Nutr Neurosci 2003 Feb;6(1):63-5.
Phytomedicine 2003;10 Suppl 4:25-30.
Int J Psychiatry Med 2003;33(1):55-69.
Phytomedicine 2003 Nov;10(8):631-9.