Description of Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a condition that affects many people. It results from problems associated with neurotransmitters within the brain. It is characterized by worry that is both unwarranted and excessive. The symptoms associated with this disorder can significantly impair daily functioning and typically require treatment either with therapy or medications.

Causes of GAD

• The cause of GAD is not certain. Some physicians suspect that GAD occurs because of problems with how the brain uses the serotonin and norepinephrine neurotransmitters. GAD may also occur in response to dealing with severe trauma, stress or illness.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of GAD include excessive worry, irritability and restlessness. Also, individuals with GAD may find it difficult to concentrate. Physical symptoms of GAD include headaches, muscle tension, sweating, insomnia and fatigue. Sometimes GAD sufferers may feel as though they are unable to breath or that they have a lump of some sort stuck in their throat. Many individuals with GAD also experience stomach aches and diarrhea.

Diagnosis

• GAD is generally diagnosed based on a psychological exam; however, family practitioners often diagnosis GAD based on a patient's description of symptoms.

Treatment

• GAD responds best to treatment that includes a combination of anti-anxiety medications and psychotherapy.

Related Disorders

• GAD is the most common type of anxiety disorder. Other anxiety disorders include panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and phobias. Often times depression occurs along with anxiety disorders.