Anxiety Disorder

Feeling anxiety is a normal reaction to a perceived threat and part of human survival. It is normal to feel fear or nervousness when facing a scary situation, whether it is encountering a wild animal or going on a first date. It is when anxiety is felt during non-threatening situations that it can become a disorder, impacting your normal function. At Primary Care Joliet, we provide anxiety disorder diagnosis and treatment at our facilities in Wilmington and Joliet, IL.

Causes and Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety disorders are a mental health condition that can develop for many reasons. Genetics can play a role – if there are anxiety disorders that run in your family, you may be at higher risk. Environmental factors can also contribute to anxiety, including traumatic events and stress. Physiological or biological factors can also impact your anxiety levels, causing a hormonal or chemical imbalance that increases the risk of anxiety disorders.

Each person may experience anxiety disorders differently. However, there are common symptoms that are associated with anxiety, including:

• Heart racing
• Excessive sweating
• Extreme fear or dread
• Insomnia or sleep disorders
• Shortness of breath or chest pain
• Nausea or vomiting

When anxiety prevents you from functioning, it is considered a mental health disorder. There are different forms of anxiety, including phobias, separation anxiety, generalized anxiety disorders (GAD) and panic disorders.

Relief for Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety treatments depend on the type, cause and symptoms of the particular disorder. It often includes a combination of behavioral treatments and medications that can help relieve symptoms. Antidepressants and other medications may be recommended to control over-reactions to certain situations. If the cause is biological or physiological, treatment for the underlying condition may be needed. Diagnosis of your disorder by one of our physicians can determine the best treatment plan to help you overcome your anxiety and improve your mental health.

Anxiety disorders can affect every aspect of your life. If you have been experiencing anxiety disorder symptoms, come see our compassionate medical team at Primary Care Joliet. We can help you explore your treatment options to improve your quality of life and health. Call our clinic to schedule an appointment – we have locations in Joliet and Wilmington for your convenience.