A phobia is an irrational and excessive fear reaction about anything which concerns you about your health. It could be normal bodily aches or pains, which causes you to misinterpret them and throw you into a panic situation that it might be something very serious. Unlike general anxiety disorders, a phobia is usually connected to something specific, like your health for example. It could take the form of a dread of cancer, or perhaps a brain tumor in your imagination.
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Health anxiety is characterised by various physical complaints which lead to neurotic thoughts, feelings and behaviours associated with the symptoms you may have. Note that the symptoms may not always be imaginary or self-produced. They may in fact accompany an actual medical condition, and that is why, if symptoms persist, it is always best to visit the doctor for a comprehensive examination.
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People with anxiety disorders find it a challenge to manage daily activities. As a result, their work life, school work or personal relationships often suffer.
If you experience repeated episodes of intense fear, worry or apprehension and this condition lasts more than 6 months, you need to seek treatment soonest possible.
Early treatment reduces the severity of symptoms associated with anxiety disorders and can help prevent health complications arising from a worsened condition.
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According to The American Psychological Association (APA), anxiety is an emotion whose chief characteristics include feelings of tension, worrisome thoughts, and physical symptoms such as high blood pressure.
It is a condition that could cause fear, recurring intrusive thoughts, apprehension, restlessness, and excessive nervousness. These feelings are usually disproportionate to the actual trigger.
A person suffering from deep anxiety might choose to avoid some situations because of worry. Also, they might display physical symptoms like a rapid heartbeat, trembling, sweating, dizziness and sleeplessness.
Different people experience anxiety in different ways. For some, it might be butterflies in your stomach or a racing heart kind of situation. But for others, they might feel out of control or a disconnect between body and mind. Anxiety symptoms could also include panic attacks, nightmares, or uncontrollable, painful memories.
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