Anxiety due to a general medical condition Hypnotherapy Brisbane

1. What is anxiety due to a general medical condition?
It’s when symptoms of anxiety are directly caused by a physical health issue, such as a hormonal imbalance, heart problem, chronic illness, or neurological condition.

2. What are common medical conditions that can trigger anxiety?
Common examples include thyroid disorders (like hyperthyroidism), heart arrhythmias, diabetes, chronic pain conditions, respiratory issues, hormonal changes (such as menopause), and neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease.

3. How is anxiety from a medical condition different from generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?
In this case, anxiety is secondary — it results from the medical condition’s physical effects on the body, rather than being a primary mental health disorder by itself.

4. What are symptoms of anxiety linked to medical conditions?
Symptoms often mirror typical anxiety symptoms — like rapid heartbeat, restlessness, dizziness, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and excessive worrying — but are linked to physical health triggers.

5. How is anxiety due to a medical condition diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually involves a combination of medical exams, lab tests, a thorough review of symptoms, and ruling out other causes, often with cooperation between medical doctors and mental health professionals.

6. Can hypnotherapy help with this type of anxiety?
Yes, carefully. Hypnotherapy can help manage emotional responses, reduce stress, promote relaxation, and help you cope better with both the anxiety and the medical condition, but it should complement (not replace) medical care.

7. What treatments are available for anxiety due to a medical condition?
Treatment focuses on managing the underlying medical condition, alongside anxiety management strategies like therapy, mindfulness, medication (if needed), lifestyle changes, and relaxation techniques.

8. Is it important to treat both the anxiety and the medical condition?
Absolutely. Treating only one side often leaves symptoms unresolved. Addressing both the physical and emotional aspects leads to more complete and lasting relief.

9. Can untreated medical-related anxiety worsen health conditions?
Yes. Chronic anxiety can increase inflammation, worsen cardiovascular issues, interfere with sleep, and decrease quality of life, making it important to address anxiety alongside physical treatment.

10. When should someone seek help for this type of anxiety?
Seek help if anxiety symptoms persist, interfere with daily life, worsen your medical condition, or cause emotional distress, even after the medical condition is being treated.