Anxiety Flashcards
1
Q
What are the diagnostic criteria for generalised anxiety disorder?
A
Six month history of three or more of:
- irritability
- restlessness, “on edge”
- easily fatigued
- difficulty concentrating
- muscle tension
- sleep disturbance
2
Q
What are the main differentials for generalised anxiety?
A
- depression
- drug and alcohol dependence/ withdrawal
- benzo dependence/ withdrawal
- hyperthyroidism
- angina/ cardiac arrhythmias
- iatrogenic drugs
- caffeine intoxication
3
Q
What are some first line treatments for anxiety?
A
- CBT
- meditation/ relaxation
- avoid aggravating substances eg caffeine, nicotine and other drugs
- regular exercise
4
Q
What are some pharmacological treatments for anxiety?
A
- SSRI, venlafaxine, buspirone or imipramine
- occasional short term use of benzodiazapines in patients having intermittent, transient exacerbations not responding to other measures
5
Q
What is a panic attack?
A
A discrete period of intense fear or discomfort in which four or more of the following symptoms develop abruptly and reach a peak within 10 minutes
- dyspnoea or smothering sensation
- dizziness, lightheadedness
- palpitations or tachycardia
- trembling or shaking
- sweating
- feeling of choking
- nausea or abdominal distress
- depersonalisation or derealisation
- paraesthesia
- flushes or chills
- chest pain or discomfort
- fear of dying
- fear of going crazy or losing control
