Generalized anxiety disorder overview: Difference between revisions

Jump to navigation Jump to search
No edit summary
 
(11 intermediate revisions by 3 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
<div style="-webkit-user-select: none;">
{|class="infobox" style="position: fixed; top: 65%; right: 10px; margin: 0 0 0 0; border: 0; float: right;
|-
| {{#ev:youtube|https://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9mPwQTiMSj8|350}}
|-
|}
__NOTOC__
__NOTOC__
{{Generalized anxiety disorder}}
{{Generalized anxiety disorder}}
{{CMG}}
{{CMG}}; {{AE}} {{I.D.}}


==Overview==
==Overview==
'''Generalized anxiety disorder''' ('''GAD''') is an [[anxiety disorder]] that is characterized by excessive, uncontrollable and often irrational worry about everyday things, which is disproportionate to the actual source of worry.  This excessive worry often interferes with daily functioning, as individuals suffering from GAD typically catastrophize, anticipate disaster, and are overly concerned about everyday matters such as [[health]] issues, money, [[family]] problems, or work difficulties.<ref name="nimh">[http://www.nimh.nih.gov/publicat/anxiety.cfm#anx7 "Anxiety Disorders"], National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed [[28 May]] [[2008]].</ref> They often exhibit a variety of physical symptoms, including [[fatigue (medical)|fatigue]], [[headache]]s, muscle tension, [[Myalgia|muscle aches]], difficulty [[swallowing]], [[tremor|trembling]], [[Muscle contraction|twitching]], [[irritability]], [[sweating]], and [[hot flashes]]. These symptoms must be consistent and on-going, persisting at least 6 months, for a formal diagnosis of GAD to be introduced. <ref name="nimh" />  Approximately 6.8 million [[United States|American]] adults experience GAD, affecting about twice as many women as men.<ref name="numbers">[http://www.nimh.nih.gov/publicat/numbers.cfm "The Numbers Count"], National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed [[28 May]] [[2007]].</ref>
'''Generalized anxiety disorder''' ('''GAD''') is an [[anxiety disorder]] that is characterized by excessive, uncontrollable and often irrational worry about everyday things, which is disproportionate to the actual source of worry.  This excessive worry often interferes with daily functioning, as individuals suffering from GAD typically catastrophize, anticipate disaster, and are overly concerned about everyday matters such as [[health]] issues, money, [[family]] problems, or work difficulties.<ref name="nimh">[http://www.nimh.nih.gov/publicat/anxiety.cfm#anx7 "Anxiety Disorders"], National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed [[28 May]] [[2008]].</ref> They often exhibit a variety of physical symptoms, including [[fatigue (medical)|fatigue]], [[headache]]s, muscle tension, [[Myalgia|muscle aches]], difficulty [[swallowing]], [[tremor|trembling]], [[Muscle contraction|twitching]], [[irritability]], [[sweating]], and [[hot flashes]]. These symptoms must be consistent and on-going, persisting at least 6 months, for a formal diagnosis of GAD to be introduced. <ref name="nimh" />  Approximately 6.8 million [[United States|American]] adults experience GAD, affecting about twice as many women as men.<ref name="numbers">[http://www.nimh.nih.gov/publicat/numbers.cfm "The Numbers Count"], National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed [[28 May]] [[2007]].</ref>
==Historical Perspective==
Generalized anxiety disorder was first recognized as a [[symptom]] by [[Sigmund Freud]]. In 1980, 'The American Psychiatric Association' introduced GAD as a diagnosis in the [[DSM-III]].
==Classification==
Generalized anxiety disorder falls under the category of anxiety disorder.<ref name="pmid19445546">{{cite journal| author=Keeton CP, Kolos AC, Walkup JT| title=Pediatric generalized anxiety disorder: epidemiology, diagnosis, and management. | journal=Paediatr Drugs | year= 2009 | volume= 11 | issue= 3 | pages= 171-83 | pmid=19445546 | doi=10.2165/00148581-200911030-00003 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=19445546  }} </ref>
==Pathophysiology==
[[Generalized anxiety disorder]] has been linked to the disrupted functional connectivity of the [[amygdala]] and its processing of [[fear]] and [[anxiety]].<ref name="pmid19996041">{{cite journal| author=Etkin A, Prater KE, Schatzberg AF, Menon V, Greicius MD| title=Disrupted amygdalar subregion functional connectivity and evidence of a compensatory network in generalized anxiety disorder. | journal=Arch Gen Psychiatry | year= 2009 | volume= 66 | issue= 12 | pages= 1361-72 | pmid=19996041 | doi=10.1001/archgenpsychiatry.2009.104 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=19996041  }} </ref>
==Differentiating Generalized anxiety disorder from other Disorders==
The differential diagnosis in generalized anxiety disorder is similar to that of [[panic disorder]]. It is important to rule out drug-induced conditions. The mental status examination should take in consideration the possibility of [[schizophrenia]], [[obsessive-compulsive disorder]], [[major depressive disorder]], and both specific and social phobias.
==Epidemiology and Demographics==
Generalized anxiety disorder is relatively common and has a lifetime prevalence of about 4-7% in the general population. It is more common in women, and can develop in any age although it more commonly occurs in the third and fourth decade of life. Approximately one quarter of the patients with generalized anxiety disorder, will develop [[panic disorder]].
==Risk Factors==
Risk factors for developing generalized anxiety disorder include family history, early adulthood, and a recent life stressor.
==History and Symptoms==
The criteria for generalized anxiety disorder include at least 6 months of excessive anxiety or worry, about a number of situations, which is difficult to control. The worry may also be associated with three of the following symptoms; [[restlessness]]. [[fatigue]], [[irritability]], [[muscle tension]], poor sleep, and difficulty concentrating. There are several disorders that have a tendency to co-occur with generalized anxiety disorder. These include; [[major depressive disorder]], [[panic disorder]], [[social phobia]], [[agoraphobia]], [[substance abuse]], [[irritable bowel syndrome]] and sleep disorders.
==Natural history, Complications, and Prognosis==
In the National Comorbidity Survey (2005), 58% of patients diagnosed with [[Clinical depression|major depression]] were found to have an anxiety disorder; among these patients, the rate of comorbidity with GAD was 17.2%, and with [[panic disorder]], 9.9%.
==Diagnostic Criteria==
The criteria for generalized anxiety disorder include at least 6 months of excessive anxiety or worry, about a number of situations, which is difficult to control. The worry may also be associated with three of the following symptoms; [[restlessness]]. [[fatigue]], [[irritability]], [[muscle tension]], poor sleep, and difficulty concentrating.
==History and Symptoms==
There are several disorders that have a tendency to co-occur with generalized anxiety disorder. These include; [[major depressive disorder]], [[panic disorder]], [[social phobia]], [[agoraphobia]], [[substance abuse]], [[irritable bowel syndrome]] and sleep disorders.
===Laboratory Findings===
There are no laboratory findings associated with generalized anxiety disorder.
===Other Imaging Findings===
There are no other imaging findings associated with generalized anxiety disorder.
===Other Diagnostic Studies===
There are no other diagnostic studies associated with generalized anxiety disorder.
==Medical Therapy==
There are a variety of medications which can be used to treat generalized anxiety disorder, and they generally work well particularly in conjunction with [[psychotherapy]]. The first line treatments are the [[SSRI]] class of antidepressants such as [[fluoxetine]], [[paroxetine]], and [[escitalopram]]. Other antidepressants such as [[imipramine]], [[venlafaxine]], and [[buspirone]] may also be effective. [[Benzodiazepines]] provide quick, effective relief from anxiety, however must be prescribed with caution due to a high risk of abuse and dependence.
==Psychotherapy==
A [[psychological]] method of treatment for GAD is [[cognitive behavioral therapy]] (CBT), which involves a [[therapist]] working with the patient to understand how [[thought]]s and [[feeling]]s influence [[behavior]].<ref name="cbt">[http://www.babcp.com/babcp/what_is_CBT.htm "A Guide to Understanding Cognitive and Behavioural Psychotherapies"], British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies. Accessed [[29 May]] [[2007]].</ref> The goal of the therapy is to change negative thought patterns that lead to the patient's anxiety, replacing them with positive, more realistic ones.  Elements of the therapy include [[Exposure Therapy|exposure strategies]] to allow the patient to gradually confront their anxieties and feel more comfortable in anxiety-provoking situations, as well as to practice the skills they have learned.  CBT can be used alone or in conjunction with [[medication]].
Neuroscience education may reduce catastrophizing among patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain<ref name="pmid33863860">{{cite journal| author=Siddall B, Ram A, Jones MD, Booth J, Perriman D, Summers SJ| title=Short-term impact of combining pain neuroscience education with exercise for chronic musculoskeletal pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis. | journal=Pain | year= 2022 | volume= 163 | issue= 1 | pages= e20-e30 | pmid=33863860 | doi=10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002308 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=33863860  }} </ref>.
==Brain Stimulation Therapy==
There is no FDA approved brain stimulation therapy available for generalized anxiety disorder.


==References==
==References==

Latest revision as of 08:49, 1 January 2022

https://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9mPwQTiMSj8%7C350}}

Generalized anxiety disorder Microchapters

Home

Patient Information

Overview

Historical Perspective

Classification

Pathophysiology

Differentiating Generalized anxiety disorder from other Disorders

Epidemiology and Demographics

Risk Factors

Natural History, Complications and Prognosis

Diagnosis

Diagnostic Criteria

History and Symptoms

Laboratory Findings

Other Imaging Findings

Other Diagnostic Studies

Treatment

Medical Therapy

Psychotherapy

Brain Stimulation Therapy

Case Studies

Case #1

Generalized anxiety disorder overview On the Web

Most recent articles

Most cited articles

Review articles

CME Programs

Powerpoint slides

Images

American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Generalized anxiety disorder overview

All Images
X-rays
Echo & Ultrasound
CT Images
MRI

Ongoing Trials at Clinical Trials.gov

US National Guidelines Clearinghouse

NICE Guidance

FDA on Generalized anxiety disorder overview

CDC on Generalized anxiety disorder overview

Generalized anxiety disorder overview in the news

Blogs on Generalized anxiety disorder overview

Directions to Hospitals Treating Generalized anxiety disorder

Risk calculators and risk factors for Generalized anxiety disorder overview

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Irfan Dotani

Overview

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is an anxiety disorder that is characterized by excessive, uncontrollable and often irrational worry about everyday things, which is disproportionate to the actual source of worry. This excessive worry often interferes with daily functioning, as individuals suffering from GAD typically catastrophize, anticipate disaster, and are overly concerned about everyday matters such as health issues, money, family problems, or work difficulties.[1] They often exhibit a variety of physical symptoms, including fatigue, headaches, muscle tension, muscle aches, difficulty swallowing, trembling, twitching, irritability, sweating, and hot flashes. These symptoms must be consistent and on-going, persisting at least 6 months, for a formal diagnosis of GAD to be introduced. [1] Approximately 6.8 million American adults experience GAD, affecting about twice as many women as men.[2]

Historical Perspective

Generalized anxiety disorder was first recognized as a symptom by Sigmund Freud. In 1980, 'The American Psychiatric Association' introduced GAD as a diagnosis in the DSM-III.

Classification

Generalized anxiety disorder falls under the category of anxiety disorder.[3]

Pathophysiology

Generalized anxiety disorder has been linked to the disrupted functional connectivity of the amygdala and its processing of fear and anxiety.[4]

Differentiating Generalized anxiety disorder from other Disorders

The differential diagnosis in generalized anxiety disorder is similar to that of panic disorder. It is important to rule out drug-induced conditions. The mental status examination should take in consideration the possibility of schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, major depressive disorder, and both specific and social phobias.

Epidemiology and Demographics

Generalized anxiety disorder is relatively common and has a lifetime prevalence of about 4-7% in the general population. It is more common in women, and can develop in any age although it more commonly occurs in the third and fourth decade of life. Approximately one quarter of the patients with generalized anxiety disorder, will develop panic disorder.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for developing generalized anxiety disorder include family history, early adulthood, and a recent life stressor.

History and Symptoms

The criteria for generalized anxiety disorder include at least 6 months of excessive anxiety or worry, about a number of situations, which is difficult to control. The worry may also be associated with three of the following symptoms; restlessness. fatigue, irritability, muscle tension, poor sleep, and difficulty concentrating. There are several disorders that have a tendency to co-occur with generalized anxiety disorder. These include; major depressive disorder, panic disorder, social phobia, agoraphobia, substance abuse, irritable bowel syndrome and sleep disorders.

Natural history, Complications, and Prognosis

In the National Comorbidity Survey (2005), 58% of patients diagnosed with major depression were found to have an anxiety disorder; among these patients, the rate of comorbidity with GAD was 17.2%, and with panic disorder, 9.9%.

Diagnostic Criteria

The criteria for generalized anxiety disorder include at least 6 months of excessive anxiety or worry, about a number of situations, which is difficult to control. The worry may also be associated with three of the following symptoms; restlessness. fatigue, irritability, muscle tension, poor sleep, and difficulty concentrating.

History and Symptoms

There are several disorders that have a tendency to co-occur with generalized anxiety disorder. These include; major depressive disorder, panic disorder, social phobia, agoraphobia, substance abuse, irritable bowel syndrome and sleep disorders.

Laboratory Findings

There are no laboratory findings associated with generalized anxiety disorder.

Other Imaging Findings

There are no other imaging findings associated with generalized anxiety disorder.

Other Diagnostic Studies

There are no other diagnostic studies associated with generalized anxiety disorder.

Medical Therapy

There are a variety of medications which can be used to treat generalized anxiety disorder, and they generally work well particularly in conjunction with psychotherapy. The first line treatments are the SSRI class of antidepressants such as fluoxetine, paroxetine, and escitalopram. Other antidepressants such as imipramine, venlafaxine, and buspirone may also be effective. Benzodiazepines provide quick, effective relief from anxiety, however must be prescribed with caution due to a high risk of abuse and dependence.

Psychotherapy

A psychological method of treatment for GAD is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which involves a therapist working with the patient to understand how thoughts and feelings influence behavior.[5] The goal of the therapy is to change negative thought patterns that lead to the patient's anxiety, replacing them with positive, more realistic ones. Elements of the therapy include exposure strategies to allow the patient to gradually confront their anxieties and feel more comfortable in anxiety-provoking situations, as well as to practice the skills they have learned. CBT can be used alone or in conjunction with medication.


Neuroscience education may reduce catastrophizing among patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain[6].

Brain Stimulation Therapy

There is no FDA approved brain stimulation therapy available for generalized anxiety disorder.

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 "Anxiety Disorders", National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed 28 May 2008.
  2. "The Numbers Count", National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed 28 May 2007.
  3. Keeton CP, Kolos AC, Walkup JT (2009). "Pediatric generalized anxiety disorder: epidemiology, diagnosis, and management". Paediatr Drugs. 11 (3): 171–83. doi:10.2165/00148581-200911030-00003. PMID 19445546.
  4. Etkin A, Prater KE, Schatzberg AF, Menon V, Greicius MD (2009). "Disrupted amygdalar subregion functional connectivity and evidence of a compensatory network in generalized anxiety disorder". Arch Gen Psychiatry. 66 (12): 1361–72. doi:10.1001/archgenpsychiatry.2009.104. PMID 19996041.
  5. "A Guide to Understanding Cognitive and Behavioural Psychotherapies", British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies. Accessed 29 May 2007.
  6. Siddall B, Ram A, Jones MD, Booth J, Perriman D, Summers SJ (2022). "Short-term impact of combining pain neuroscience education with exercise for chronic musculoskeletal pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis". Pain. 163 (1): e20–e30. doi:10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002308. PMID 33863860 Check |pmid= value (help).