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Ask our Doctors

Skin Renewal Doctors all have a broad knowledge, background and passion for aesthetic medicine. Please feel free to ask them your questions and concerns.

Conditions
Conditions

Anxiety

Understanding anxiety is crucial in navigating its effects on mental health. In its natural state, it serves a vital purpose by helping individuals anticipate and avoid potential threats, ensuring their safety and well-being. However, when anxiety becomes excessive or disproportionate to the situation, it can lead to debilitating anxiety disorders. These disorders are characterised by persistent fear or worry that interferes with daily life and can manifest in symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, irritability, tense muscles, sleep disturbances, and excessive worrying.

Understanding Anxiety:

While conventional healthcare often relies on psychoactive drugs to alleviate anxiety symptoms by targeting neurotransmitter signalling, these treatments may fall short of addressing the underlying causes of anxiety. Research suggests that hormonal and metabolic imbalances play a significant role in the development and persistence of anxiety disorders. Often overlooked by mainstream physicians, these imbalances can contribute to the ineffectiveness of conventional treatments, leading to a low success rate.

Recognising and addressing underappreciated risk factors, such as elevated homocysteine levels and sex hormone imbalances, is essential in developing effective treatment regimens for anxiety disorders. Natural remedies, including nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and magnesium and adaptogenic herbs such as Rhodiola, have shown promise in optimising the body's stress response mechanisms and supporting healthy neurological communication. Compounds like B vitamins and amino acids also provide essential raw materials for proper neurotransmitter synthesis and signalling, aiding in symptom relief.

It's noteworthy that anxiety disorders often coexist with depression, and both conditions may share common underlying causes, such as hormonal imbalances. Women are particularly susceptible to anxiety disorders, with statistics showing they are twice as likely as men to suffer from generalised anxiety disorder. Factors like hormonal fluctuations during menstruation, menopause, and pregnancy may contribute to the onset and severity of anxiety symptoms in women. By understanding these connections and addressing hormonal imbalances naturally, individuals can find relief from anxiety symptoms and improve their overall well-being.

Risk Factors Associated with Anxiety:

Various factors increase the risk of anxiety disorders, including gender, age (especially between 10 and 25), childhood experiences like shyness or bullying, genetics, lack of social connections, trauma, and certain medical conditions. Anxiety disorders often occur alongside other health issues like depression and cardiovascular diseases, making coping with stress more difficult.

Homocysteine, linked to mood regulation, rises with decreased B-vitamin levels, affecting neurotransmitter synthesis and potentially leading to mood disorders. Studies suggest high homocysteine levels correlate with mood changes, including PTSD duration. Genetic abnormalities can also elevate homocysteine levels. Supplementing with homocysteine-lowering B vitamins may help alleviate anxiety symptoms.

S-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e), supporting neurotransmitter formation, shows promise in treating depressive disorders. Maintaining homocysteine levels below 7 μmol/L aids neurotransmitter metabolism and may help balance mood during times of stress, depression, and anxiety.

Different Anxiety Disorders:

Anxiety disorders encompass various conditions characterised by excessive worry, fear, and apprehension, often accompanied by physical symptoms. Here is a summary of the various anxiety disorders you may come accross:

Disorder

Description

Generalised Anxiety Disorder

- Characterised by constant worry and tension without a specific trigger.

- Symptoms include excessive concern about health, finances, work, insomnia, and poor concentration.

- Diagnosis based on exhibiting three or more symptoms for at least six consecutive months.

Panic Disorder

- Involves sudden attacks of fear and impending doom, accompanied by physical symptoms like elevated heart rate and chest pain.

- Panic attacks can be triggered by past traumas and may lead to agoraphobia.

- Diagnosis requires recurrent, unexpected attacks followed by persistent concern or behavioural changes.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

- Features persistent, upsetting thoughts (obsessions) leading to ritualistic actions (compulsions) to alleviate anxiety.

- Examples include excessive handwashing due to fear of germs.

- Diagnosis involves distressing repetitive behaviours interfering with daily life, often accompanied by other disorders like depression.

Phobia

- Inexplicable and unjustifiable fears, such as specific objects or situations.

- Social phobia involves chronic fear of embarrassing oneself in social situations, leading to avoidance and physical symptoms like sweating and nausea.

- Diagnosis based on persistent fear causing avoidance or extreme anxiety in social situations.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

- Arises from experiencing or witnessing traumatic events, leading to nightmares and flashbacks.

- Symptoms include hypersensitivity, detachment, and memory loss related to the traumatic event.

- Diagnosis involves persistent re-experiencing of the trauma and symptoms lasting more than one month.

frequently asked
questions

What are the causes of anxiety?

Impaired stress response can lead to anxiety and depression and affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Anxiety and depression often coexist as they share similar underlying physiological mechanisms. When faced with stress, the body initiates adaptive reactions, releasing stress hormones like cortisol. This fight-or-flight response prioritizes functions to cope with danger, originating in the brain's hypothalamus and signalling the pituitary and adrenal glands. However, modern stressors, including financial worries and sedentary lifestyles, chronically activate the HPA axis, leading to health issues like cardiovascular disease and mood disorders.

Chronic stress elevates cortisol levels, causing physical changes in brain structure, such as less functional neuronal connections and decreased sensitivity of serotonin receptors. This can lead to neuronal damage and impaired neurogenesis, exacerbating mood disorders. Psychoactive drugs used in anxiety and depression may stabilize mood by modulating glucocorticoid receptors in the brain. Genetic and epidemiological studies support the connection between excessive stress and increased rates of anxiety and depression. Controlling stress response is crucial in treating mood disorders effectively.

How is anxiety disorders diagnosed and treated?

Diagnosing and treating anxiety disorders can be challenging due to similarities with depression and the potential for individuals to experience both conditions interchangeably. Diagnosis relies on clinical observation, and treatment often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, therapy, and medication.

Cognitive-behavioural therapy helps identify and replace distorted thoughts contributing to anxiety, while behaviour therapy teaches relaxation techniques and gradual exposure to triggers.

Medications like benzodiazepines, antidepressants, beta-blockers, and pregabalin are commonly used to manage anxiety symptoms by altering neurotransmitter levels. However, these drugs may lead to tolerance, dependency, and side effects like dizziness and drowsiness, requiring careful consideration and monitoring during treatment.

What integrative measures are recommended to treat anxiety?

Anxiety disorders affect more women than men, with hormonal changes during pregnancy, postpartum, menstruation, and menopause influencing anxiety levels. Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone play roles in mood regulation, with abnormalities in hormone levels linked to anxiety disorders. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can alleviate anxiety symptoms by restoring hormone balance. Lifestyle changes, including managing stress, getting enough sleep, exercise, and maintaining a healthy diet, are crucial for anxiety management. Practices like yoga, Tai Chi, and Pilates, along with music and massage therapy, can reduce anxiety symptoms. Following a Mediterranean diet and nutritional supplementation can also help control anxiety symptoms.


​What natural therapies may help with anxiety?

Anxiety disorders affect more women than men, with hormonal changes during pregnancy, postpartum, menstruation, and menopause influencing anxiety levels. Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone play roles in mood regulation, with abnormalities in hormone levels linked to anxiety disorders. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can alleviate anxiety symptoms by restoring hormone balance. Lifestyle changes, including managing stress, getting enough sleep, exercising, and maintaining a healthy diet, are crucial for anxiety management.

Practices like yoga, Tai Chi, and Pilates, along with music and massage therapy, can reduce anxiety symptoms. Following a Mediterranean diet and nutritional supplementation can also help control anxiety symptoms.

Why should one not self-medicate?

Health Renewal Doctors tailor nutraceuticals for each individual based on their medical history, physical examination, and blood tests to address specific needs and deficiencies. Self-medication, or taking prescription medication or supplements without medical supervision, can be harmful and may overlook vital deficiencies or conditions such as high blood pressure or stress levels.

Launching a dietary supplementation program without medical supervision can also have adverse effects. There is no single supplement as a "magic bullet" to fulfil all nutritional needs, given the inadequacies of modern food. It's essential to supplement under the guidance of a qualified physician to maintain optimal bodily functions and nutrition.

How is anxiety managed at Health Renewal?

The diagnosis of an anxiety disorder can be difficult due to the overlapping symptoms it shares with depression. A person can move between anxiety and depression, but because many of the same mechanisms are involved in both disorders, treatment for one usually helps with the treatment of the other.

Treatment of anxiety disorders consists of a holistic approach. The diagnosis is usually made based on clinical findings based on the patient’s specific history & evaluation. In-depth blood screening will be done for all patients to identify underlying bodily abnormalities. A treatment protocol will consist of a combination of the following: possible medication, nutraceutical supplementation, hormone restoration, lifestyle changes, relaxation therapy, and psychotherapy, such as behavioural therapy and cognitive-behavioural therapy.

What can you do to control and prevent anxiety?

Managing anxiety involves various strategies that can be easily implemented. Controlling breathing through slow, deliberate techniques can help alleviate anxiety symptoms. Engaging in aerobic exercises helps burn stress hormones, release endorphins, and distract from anxious thoughts.

Finding relaxing activities and engaging in them promptly can prevent anxiety from escalating. Additionally, learning to challenge anxious thoughts with questions or affirmations can be effective. Listening to uplifting music and engaging in intimate activities can also promote relaxation. Finally, focusing on the present moment rather than worrying about the future can help individuals with anxiety lead fulfilling lives.

Frequently asked questions

What are the causes of anxiety?

Impaired stress response can lead to anxiety and depression and affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Anxiety and depression often coexist as they share similar underlying physiological mechanisms. When faced with stress, the body initiates adaptive reactions, releasing stress hormones like cortisol. This fight-or-flight response prioritizes functions to cope with danger, originating in the brain's hypothalamus and signalling the pituitary and adrenal glands. However, modern stressors, including financial worries and sedentary lifestyles, chronically activate the HPA axis, leading to health issues like cardiovascular disease and mood disorders.

Chronic stress elevates cortisol levels, causing physical changes in brain structure, such as less functional neuronal connections and decreased sensitivity of serotonin receptors. This can lead to neuronal damage and impaired neurogenesis, exacerbating mood disorders. Psychoactive drugs used in anxiety and depression may stabilize mood by modulating glucocorticoid receptors in the brain. Genetic and epidemiological studies support the connection between excessive stress and increased rates of anxiety and depression. Controlling stress response is crucial in treating mood disorders effectively.

How is anxiety disorders diagnosed and treated?

Diagnosing and treating anxiety disorders can be challenging due to similarities with depression and the potential for individuals to experience both conditions interchangeably. Diagnosis relies on clinical observation, and treatment often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, therapy, and medication.

Cognitive-behavioural therapy helps identify and replace distorted thoughts contributing to anxiety, while behaviour therapy teaches relaxation techniques and gradual exposure to triggers.

Medications like benzodiazepines, antidepressants, beta-blockers, and pregabalin are commonly used to manage anxiety symptoms by altering neurotransmitter levels. However, these drugs may lead to tolerance, dependency, and side effects like dizziness and drowsiness, requiring careful consideration and monitoring during treatment.

What integrative measures are recommended to treat anxiety?

Anxiety disorders affect more women than men, with hormonal changes during pregnancy, postpartum, menstruation, and menopause influencing anxiety levels. Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone play roles in mood regulation, with abnormalities in hormone levels linked to anxiety disorders. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can alleviate anxiety symptoms by restoring hormone balance. Lifestyle changes, including managing stress, getting enough sleep, exercise, and maintaining a healthy diet, are crucial for anxiety management. Practices like yoga, Tai Chi, and Pilates, along with music and massage therapy, can reduce anxiety symptoms. Following a Mediterranean diet and nutritional supplementation can also help control anxiety symptoms.


​What natural therapies may help with anxiety?

Anxiety disorders affect more women than men, with hormonal changes during pregnancy, postpartum, menstruation, and menopause influencing anxiety levels. Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone play roles in mood regulation, with abnormalities in hormone levels linked to anxiety disorders. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can alleviate anxiety symptoms by restoring hormone balance. Lifestyle changes, including managing stress, getting enough sleep, exercising, and maintaining a healthy diet, are crucial for anxiety management.

Practices like yoga, Tai Chi, and Pilates, along with music and massage therapy, can reduce anxiety symptoms. Following a Mediterranean diet and nutritional supplementation can also help control anxiety symptoms.

Why should one not self-medicate?

Health Renewal Doctors tailor nutraceuticals for each individual based on their medical history, physical examination, and blood tests to address specific needs and deficiencies. Self-medication, or taking prescription medication or supplements without medical supervision, can be harmful and may overlook vital deficiencies or conditions such as high blood pressure or stress levels.

Launching a dietary supplementation program without medical supervision can also have adverse effects. There is no single supplement as a "magic bullet" to fulfil all nutritional needs, given the inadequacies of modern food. It's essential to supplement under the guidance of a qualified physician to maintain optimal bodily functions and nutrition.

How is anxiety managed at Health Renewal?

The diagnosis of an anxiety disorder can be difficult due to the overlapping symptoms it shares with depression. A person can move between anxiety and depression, but because many of the same mechanisms are involved in both disorders, treatment for one usually helps with the treatment of the other.

Treatment of anxiety disorders consists of a holistic approach. The diagnosis is usually made based on clinical findings based on the patient’s specific history & evaluation. In-depth blood screening will be done for all patients to identify underlying bodily abnormalities. A treatment protocol will consist of a combination of the following: possible medication, nutraceutical supplementation, hormone restoration, lifestyle changes, relaxation therapy, and psychotherapy, such as behavioural therapy and cognitive-behavioural therapy.

What can you do to control and prevent anxiety?

Managing anxiety involves various strategies that can be easily implemented. Controlling breathing through slow, deliberate techniques can help alleviate anxiety symptoms. Engaging in aerobic exercises helps burn stress hormones, release endorphins, and distract from anxious thoughts.

Finding relaxing activities and engaging in them promptly can prevent anxiety from escalating. Additionally, learning to challenge anxious thoughts with questions or affirmations can be effective. Listening to uplifting music and engaging in intimate activities can also promote relaxation. Finally, focusing on the present moment rather than worrying about the future can help individuals with anxiety lead fulfilling lives.

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