What illnesses can cause anxiety symptoms?

Michael J. Mufson, MD

Psychiatry

These are the most common illnesses or categories of illnesses that can cause anxiety symptoms:

Cardiovascular conditions, including angina, arrhythmias, heart failure, and valvular disease. A heart attack can also cause anxiety symptoms.
Neurological conditions, including vertigo and seizure disorders.
Peptic ulcer disease, which causes sores in the lining of the stomach or duodenum (the first part of the small intestine).
Respiratory conditions such as asthma and hyperventilation syndrome, which produces the tendency to breathe so quickly and deeply that you become dizzy.
Endocrine disorders, which involve hormonal imbalances. They include hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), and pheochromocytoma, a tumor of the adrenal gland that secretes excess amounts of adrenaline. They also include diabetes, hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.