First Steps: Ruling Out Other Causes and Talking to Your Doctor

Before concluding that your symptoms are solely due to anxiety, it is essential to start with a visit to your primary care doctor. The mind and body are deeply connected, and what feels like anxiety can sometimes be a symptom of an underlying physical health issue. This step is especially critical for older adults, who are more likely to be managing chronic conditions or taking multiple medications.

Your doctor can help rule out other potential causes, such as:

Medication Side Effects: A wide range of medications, including some for blood pressure, steroids, or even over-the-counter decongestants, can cause anxiety-like symptoms. A medication review is a vital first step.

Thyroid Issues: An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can mimic anxiety perfectly, causing a racing heart, sweating, and a feeling of being “revved up.”

Heart or Lung Conditions: Conditions like arrhythmia or COPD can cause physical sensations like palpitations and shortness of breath that trigger feelings of panic.

Vitamin Deficiencies: Low levels of certain vitamins, like B12, can sometimes contribute to mood changes and anxiety.

Sensory Changes: Gradual hearing or vision loss can be disorienting and stressful, leading to increased anxiety in social situations or when navigating unfamiliar environments.

How to Prepare for Your Appointment

Feeling anxious about a doctor’s appointment is common. Being prepared can help you feel more in control and ensure you have a productive conversation. You are the expert on your own experience, and your input is crucial.

Before you go, make a few simple notes. It can be hard to remember everything on the spot. Jot down:

1. Your Symptoms: Be specific. When did they start? What do they feel like? What makes them better or worse? For example, “For the last two months, I’ve had chest tightness and a racing heart, mostly in the evenings when I’m trying to relax.”

2. Your Medications: Create a complete list of everything you take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

3. Your Questions: Writing down your questions ensures you won’t forget them. Consider asking:

“I’ve been feeling very worried and on edge lately. Could my symptoms be related to anxiety?”

“Could any of my current medications or health conditions be causing these feelings?”

“What are the next steps for evaluation? Should I consider a referral to a mental health specialist?”

Speaking up about your mental health is a sign of strength. Your doctor is a partner in your overall well-being and can be your greatest ally in finding the right path forward, whether that involves further medical tests, lifestyle recommendations, or a referral to a therapist. For reliable health information, you can visit resources like the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).