Common Triggers of Anxiety and Avoiding Them
Anxiety can be triggered by a number of different factors. Some are very physical and others are mental. Some are both. Mental triggers can vary and are specific and unique to each individual. There are however several very common physical traits and triggers that cause and/or worsen symptoms of stress and anxiety. Identifying these triggers will be the first thing that needs to be done to overcome in regards to anxiety and being able to prevent further symptoms.
Sensitivities to Food
Food allergies can cause symptoms of anxiety. Food allergies most of the time cause noticeable and disturbing symptoms that will most of the time require very prompt and immediate medical attention and treatment. Intolerance and food sensitivities will often times cause very vague discomfort. It can lead to problems with breathing, issues with sinuses as well as congestion and some digestive complications. Some of which are GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), acid reflux, as well as IBS. These are caused by sensitivities to food and as a result often times lead to panic attacks and extreme anxiety.
What can be very helpful is to keep a diary for your food intake that will help you to track and monitor your symptoms so you can see just exactly which foods are causing you problems.
Common Anxiety Triggers and Ways to Avoid Them
Dehydration
Studies show that there are definite links between being dehydrated and your mood fluctuations. Even very mild dehydration will cause fatigue, confusion, tense muscles, irritability and feelings of anxiousness. Getting enough fluid is necessary for the body to properly function your brain. It’s important to stay fully hydrated and to make sure and avoid too much diuretic consumption. These include: coffee and alcohol. It is suggested that we drink at a minimum 8-10 glasses of water each day.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Some specific vitamins and specific minerals in your body can affect your nervous system which leads to a low mood swings, increased irritability and make you very anxious. Vitamin B is essential for several various functions including the function of the brain and your metabolism. Both vitamin C and vitamin E are necessary for your nervous systems proper functioning. Selenium is very necessary for the normal processes connected with our neurotransmitters in your brain. In addition, deficiency of both magnesium/omega-3 fatty acids can cause fatigue, irritability and increased anxiety. It’s important to eat a diet that is balanced. This is the most optimal way to prevent getting deficiencies. Supplements are needed particularly those people with certain health conditions. Some medications are able to prevent absorption of very essential and important nutrients, so it’s important to talk to a doctor if nutritional deficiencies are suspected.
Medications
Prescription medications as well as over-the-counter drugs and health supplements can cause anxiety symptoms. Weight loss pills, decongestant tabs, as well as asthma medications and some painkillers are considered drugs that have stimulants. These stimulants can cause the heart to begin beating faster and than can increase the tension in our muscles thus causing symptoms of anxiety as well. Caffeine that is found in tea, caffeinated coffee, and most energy drinks have been known to cause the onset of panic attacks. Also some herbal remedies and some supplements can trigger anxiety. This is especially true if combined with some specific medications. Always be safe and check with your local doctor first before trying any of these.
Get The Help You Need
You do not have to figure this out all alone. Call High Expectations Counseling today and talk to one of our highly trained therapists. Our staff is here to help guide you and allow you the peace of mind you deserve. Call today at 407-967-1327.
