Anxiety Symptoms & Relief

Anxiety is the body's natural response to stress or danger. Though the feeling is uncomfortable, anxiety is a reflex that helps one avoid potentially harmful situations. Anxiety in response to a stressful situation is healthy, but when anxiety begins to interfere with a person's daily life, an anxiety disorder may be the cause. Anxiety relief can be achieved with the help of a licensed professional who can provide therapy or medication.

Pounding Heart

• The heart may pound, race or palpitate noticeably. The chest may also feel tight or painful. Some compare the feeling to a heart attack, though it is usually not as severe.

Panic

• Anxiety can paralyze a person with an unexplainable or unreasonable feeling of panic or dread. Anxiety also causes feelings of apprehension and tension, though there may not be a determinable cause.

Difficulty Breathing

• Anxiety can make it difficult for a person to breathe regularly. She may experience shortness of breath and need to gasp for air.

Therapy

• Counseling and therapy are very effective methods to achieve anxiety relief. A licensed therapist can help a person work through anxiety issues and treat any underlying causes of anxiety.

Medication

• Anti-anxiety medication, such as Xanax or Ativan, can provide swift relief from an anxiety attack. A physician can determine which medication and dosage are right for an individual.