[30M] Experiencing severe anxiety, palpitations, and fatigue

Patient Description

A 30-year-old male has been experiencing severe anxiety, noticeable hand tremors, chest discomfort, rapid heart rate, and persistent fatigue for the past 6 months to a year. These symptoms are exacerbated in social situations and when around people, leading to social withdrawal and depression. The patient reports hyperventilation during panic episodes, heart palpitations, and excessive sweating from the armpits. Despite extended periods of sleep, the patient continues to feel lifeless and lacks energy. No pre-existing conditions, medication use, allergies, or family history of similar symptoms were reported. The patient has not engaged in the use of recreational drugs or alcohol.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, you may be experiencing the following:

  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): This is a common condition characterized by excessive, long-lasting anxiety and worry about nonspecific life events, objects, and situations. GAD is the most common cause of disability among the anxiety disorders and can lead to symptoms such as restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and sleep disturbances.

    • Treatment typically involves a combination of medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
  • Panic Disorder: This condition is characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks, which are sudden periods of intense fear that may include palpitations, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rate; sweating; trembling or shaking; sensations of shortness of breath, smothering, or choking; and feeling of impending doom.

    • Treatment typically involves a combination of medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
  • Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD): This is a common anxiety disorder characterized by a significant amount of fear in one or more social situations causing considerable distress and impaired ability to function in at least some parts of daily life. These fears can be triggered by perceived or actual scrutiny from others.

    • Treatment typically involves a combination of medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): This is a complicated disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that can't be explained by any underlying medical condition. The fatigue may worsen with physical or mental activity, but doesn't improve with rest.

    • Treatment typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary restrictions, gentle exercise, and medication to manage symptoms.

What you can do

  1. Seek professional help: It's important to consult a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms. They can provide a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.
  2. Practice good sleep hygiene: This includes going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and making your sleep environment comfortable.
  3. Regular exercise: Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety by boosting your mood and acting as a natural stress reliever.
  4. Healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet can help you feel better in general. It may also help to control your symptoms.
  5. Limit alcohol and avoid drugs: These substances can trigger or worsen anxiety and can also make you feel more tired.

What you should look out for

  • If your symptoms worsen or you start to feel like you're in danger or a danger to yourself, seek immediate medical attention.
  • If you start to experience new symptoms, such as a high fever, severe headache, chest pain, shortness of breath, or anything else that is severe or concerning.

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate and helpful health information, this is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare provider.

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People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

Common symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) include excessive worry, restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances.


How can panic disorder be managed effectively?

Panic disorder can be managed effectively through a combination of medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps patients understand and change their thought patterns and behaviors.


What lifestyle changes can help alleviate symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)?

Lifestyle changes that can help alleviate symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) include maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in gentle exercise, ensuring good sleep hygiene, and managing stress through relaxation techniques.


What are some strategies to cope with Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)?

Strategies to cope with Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps change negative thought patterns, exposure therapy to gradually face feared social situations, and practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and mindfulness.


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