At every critical moment, extreme tension and irritation... Could I also have 'anxiety disorder'?

◆ Feeling nauseous and like I might vomit... vomiting, indigestion

When stimuli such as stress are applied, the nervous system in the digestive tract reacts, causing symptoms like a queasy feeling in the chest and a tendency to vomit. Serotonin, known as the "happiness hormone," which transmits information between nerve cells, cannot perform its role properly during negative emotions. The presence of numerous nerve fibers in the digestive tract indicates that emotional imbalance can lead to causes such as vomiting or indigestion.

◆ Heart pounding... Increase in heart rate and blood pressure

Anxiety can be seen as an 'alarm system' embedded within our bodies. It serves to alert us so we can respond quickly to dangerous situations. The amygdala region of the brain activates this alarm when it detects a threatening situation. It releases large amounts of hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, helping the body prepare for a 'fight-or-flight response.' This series of reactions increases heart rate and blood pressure, causing the chest to beat rapidly.

◆ Shivering or sweating profusely... chills or sweating

When the 'fight-or-flight response' occurs, our body experiences a sudden change in temperature. This is because the hypothalamus, a brain region involved in regulating body temperature, is affected by anxiety disorders. As a result, one may feel chills and shiver, or alternatively, feel hot and sweat. Sometimes, both symptoms can occur simultaneously.

◆ Difficulty breathing and chest tightness... Shortness of breath, chest pain

The heart and lungs have a mutually influencing relationship. When the heart rate suddenly speeds up, the lungs work harder to supply oxygen. This is why breathing becomes very rapid during extreme anxiety, such as a panic attack. In such cases, taking deep breaths can help calm both the heart rate and shortness of breath. If the condition worsens or chest pain is felt despite deep breathing, emergency measures are necessary.

◆ Indigestion, stomach pain... abdominal pain, bloating

When our body prepares to respond to a threatening situation, blood flow is concentrated in muscles, vision, hearing, and other areas. This is because these body parts play a crucial role in fighting or fleeing. On the other hand, the digestive organs are not prioritized as highly in the fight-or-flight response. As a result, blood flow does not smoothly reach the digestive tract, which can lead to constipation or diarrhea. Tension can also cause symptoms such as stomach pain or abdominal bloating, which can be explained by this reason.

◆ Long-term recurrent anxiety disorder requires treatment by a specialist

If anxiety persists repeatedly over a long period rather than being a temporary situation, it is advisable to seek treatment through an accurate diagnosis by a psychiatrist specializing in mental health. Psychologists advise not to ignore anxiety disorders and to approach treatment seriously. Ignoring symptoms of anxiety disorders may actually worsen the condition. There are various pharmacological and psychotherapeutic treatments for acute, chronic, and post-traumatic anxiety disorders.