Overcoming Anxiety

Effects of Anxiety

September 6th, 2007

Anxiety is normal but when it gets severe it becomes a disorder. Anxiety disorders are accompanied with many mental and physical effects.

The various physical effects of anxiety are:-

1. Nurological effects of Anxiety Disorders

When some kind of a danger is perceived by the brain, the brain sends signals to the ANS (autonomous nervous system).the autonomous nervous system has two subcomponents namely the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system .the sympathetic nervous system releases energy sand is responsible for making the body ready for action on the other hand the parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for restoring the system to a normal state.

2. Resdpiratory effects of Anxiety Disorders

As the sympathetic nervous system of the autonomous nervous system is responsible for the action of the body to any danger it is associated with an increase in the breathing rate and depth of breathing. This is an obvious phenomenon as the tissues and muscles require more energy and hence oxygen to prepare for the action. This increase in the rate of breathing g leads to breathless ness, chest pain, smothering feelings. The increased rate of breathing without has some side effects especially when there is no actual occurrence of activity. These side effects are not very dangerous but it leads to some unpleasant feelings such as blurred vision, confusion, and dizziness.

3. Cardio vascular effects of Anxiety Disorders.

The sympathetic nervous system prepares the body for action, when this happens there is a an increase in the rate of blood flow to the muscles which in turn enriches the muscles and tissues with more oxygen and takes away carbon dioxide and waste products at a faster rate

4. Sweat gland effects of Anxiety Disorders.

Sweating increases as the heart beat increases which again are due to the sympathetic nervous system.

5. Effects on the Behavior

Anxiety often leads to a deviation from the normal behavior of a person. Feelings such as being trapped and wanting to escape are encountered. Improper speaking, shivering, feelings of guilt are also experienced.

6. Effects on the Mental System

The brain starts thinking about the matter of concern which causes anxiety, which leads to a shift in attention from the normal daily thinking about the various general aspects of life.

Tags:  Anxiety anxiety disorders autonomous nervous system cardio vascular parasympathetic nervous system sweat gland sympathetic nervous system

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Entry Filed under: Anxiety