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Symptoms of GAD

GAD, or generalized anxiety disorder, is characterized by a persistent pattern of extreme anxiety. GAD shares symptoms with other disorders, such as obsessive compulsive disorder and panic disorder.

  1. Worry

    • GAD patients constantly worry, even when there is no specific cause. Their anxiety is typically out of proportion to the situation.

    Restlessness

    • Individuals suffering from GAD typically feel keyed up or on edge. This restlessness makes it hard for them to concentrate on daily activities.

    Sleep Disturbances

    • GAD causes various sleep disturbances, such as insomnia, sudden waking and unsatisfying, restless sleep. GAD patients are frequently fatigued.

    Muscle Tension

    • People with GAD constantly tense up their muscles. This leads to frequent headaches, body aches and shakiness.

    Other Symptoms

    • Other common GAD symptoms include heart palpitations, excessive sweating, gastrointestinal distress and shortness of breath. All of these symptoms can make GAD patients quite irritable.

    Considerations

    • GAD symptoms frequently begin at a young age and slowly develop into other anxiety disorders. Many GAD patients find relief by undergoing psychotherapy.

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