What are the somatic symptoms of severe anxiety disorder?
Nov 17, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
Physical symptoms of severe anxiety disorder typically manifest as intense reactions in the cardiovascular system, significant discomfort in the respiratory system, and persistent muscle tension in the musculoskeletal system. Patients often experience frequent and intense palpitations accompanied by chest tightness and chest pain, which may last from several minutes to tens of minutes. Some individuals may have a sudden rise in blood pressure. Despite the absence of cardiac pathology, they may experience an overwhelming sense of "impending doom" during episodes, severely affecting daily activities.
Physical symptoms of severe anxiety disorder can generally manifest through intense reactions in the cardiovascular system, severe discomfort in the respiratory system, pronounced abnormalities in the nervous system, severe disturbances in the digestive system, and persistent muscle tension in the musculoskeletal system. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Intense cardiovascular reactions: Frequent and strong palpitations accompanied by chest tightness and chest pain, which may last from several minutes to tens of minutes. Some individuals experience sudden increases in blood pressure. Despite the absence of underlying heart disease, these episodes often induce a powerful "sense of impending doom," significantly impairing daily activities.
2. Severe respiratory discomfort: During attacks, rapid and labored breathing occurs, often accompanied by hyperventilation, leading to dizziness, numbness in hands, feet, and face. Some people may experience brief confusion, with symptoms taking more than half an hour to subside.
3. Pronounced nervous system abnormalities: Persistent headaches accompanied by frequent tinnitus and scalp tingling. Patients may also develop limb tremors, severe difficulty concentrating, and a significant short-term decline in memory.
4. Severe digestive system disturbances: Frequent nausea and vomiting, or persistent abdominal pain and diarrhea. A burning or constricting sensation in the stomach may worsen after eating, potentially leading to rapid weight loss.
5. Persistent musculoskeletal tension: Generalized muscle stiffness, with severe aching pain in the neck, shoulders, lower back, and back muscles. Muscle spasms may occur, and massage or rest provides little relief. Prolonged muscle tension exacerbates fatigue and disrupts sleep.
If the above severe physical symptoms occur frequently and interfere with normal daily life, prompt consultation with a psychiatrist or mental health specialist is essential. Standardized treatment can help control anxiety symptoms and prevent a vicious cycle between physical discomfort and anxiety.
