What are the symptoms of anxiety?

The primary symptoms of anxiety disorders are fear and worry. However, anxiety disorders are also characterized by additional emotional and physical symptoms.

Physical: Physical symptoms include heart palpitations (irregular heartbeat), angina (chest pain), hot flashes or chills, cold and clammy hands, stomach upset or queasiness, frequent urination, diarrhea, shortness of breath, sweating, vertigo (dizziness), tremors, muscle tension or aches, fatigue (tiredness), and insomnia (inability to sleep).

Emotional/Psychological: Emotional or psychological symptoms can include apprehension, uneasiness, dread, impaired concentration or selective attention, feeling restless or on edge, avoidance, nightmares, irritability, confusion, behavioral problems (especially in children and adolescents), nervousness, jumpiness, self-consciousness, insecurity, fear of dying or going crazy, and a strong desire to escape.