Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a pattern of frequent, constant worry and anxiety over many different activities and events.
Alternative Names:
GAD; Anxiety disorder
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a common condition. The cause of GAD is not known, but biological and psychological factors play a role. Stressful life situations or behavior developed through learning may also contribute to GAD.
The disorder may start at any time in life, including childhood. Most people with the disorder report that they have been anxious for as long as they can remember. GAD occurs somewhat more often in women than in men.
Symptoms:
Generalized anxiety disorder has the following symptoms:
Excess anxiety and worry that is out of proportion to the situation
Difficulty controlling the worry
Restlessness or feeling keyed up or "on the edge"
Being easily tired
Difficulty concentrating
Irritability
Muscle tension -- shakiness, headaches
Sleep disturbance (difficulty falling or staying asleep; or restless, unsatisfying sleep)
Excessive sweating, palpitations, shortness of breath, and stomach/intestinal symptoms
Signs and tests:
A physical examination and a psychological evaluation can rule out other causes of anxiety. Physical disorders that may mimic an anxiety state should be ruled out, as well as symptoms caused by drugs. This process may include different tests.
Review Date: 2/6/2008
Reviewed By: Christos Ballas, MD, Attending Psychiatrist, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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Anxiety & Stress
