Organic Anxiety Disorder

Overview

Organic Anxiety Disorder, It manifests itself as extreme or exaggerated worry over issues big or small due to a chemical imbalance in the brain.

It may also caused by a disease that affects the brain on a physical level. Those who suffer from this disorder generally have a list of problems on their mind that causes them to not be able to function effectively.

Over the years, the options for treating anxiety disorder have really blossomed, with many choosing guided therapy to get help getting over unnecessary worry.

There may be no cure for the physical side of this disorder, but a person can learn methods to deal with the many symptoms that come with it.  In detail; Treatment involving psychotherapy can assist with minimizing the disruption of everyday life for those suffering from this disorder. [3]

Besides this; According to ICD-10 (F06.4), presence of prominent and either persistent generalised anxiety or panic caused by an underlying cause is required for diagnosis of this disease. Additionally; to the general guidelines for the diagnosis of other organic mental disorders.

Lastly; It is important to rule out any major disturbance of consciousness, orientation, memory, personality, thought, perception, or mood. [1]

Epidemiology

Organic Anxiety Disorder (OAD), also known as anxiety disorder due to another medical condition, is a relatively less studied condition compared to primary anxiety disorders. The epidemiology specifically focusing on OAD in India is limited, but some insights can be gleaned from broader mental health surveys and studies:

• National Mental Health Survey (NMHS) 2016: This nationwide survey did not specifically assess OAD but included "anxiety disorder due to a general medical condition" within the broader category of anxiety disorders. The overall prevalence of anxiety disorders was found to be 2.57%, but the specific contribution of OAD within this figure is not known. (Reference: Murthy et al., 2022. Prevalence and its correlates of anxiety disorders from India’s National Mental Health Survey 2016)

Challenges in assessing OAD epidemiology in India:

• Limited specific studies: There is a scarcity of dedicated epidemiological research focusing solely on OAD in the Indian context.
• Diagnostic overlap: Differentiating OAD from primary anxiety disorders can be challenging, especially in settings with limited access to specialized medical investigations.
• Stigma and underreporting: Mental health conditions, including anxiety, are often stigmatized in India, leading to underreporting and potential underestimation of prevalence. [3]

Causes of Organic Anxiety disorder

1. Drugs and toxins i.e.:

Cocaine, caffeine, amphetamines also other sympathomimetics, alcohol and drug withdrawal, heavy metals, penicillin may cause organic anxiety disorder.

2. Endocrine disorders i.e.:

Thyroid, pituitary, parathyroid, or adrenal dysfunction; pheochromocytoma; fasting hypoglycemia, carcinoid syndrome.

3. Systemic diseases i.e.:

For example; Cardiac arrhythmias, mitral valve prolapse syndrome, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, coronary artery disease, pulmonary embolism, anaemia, fever, deficiency diseases may lead to organic anxiety disorder.

4. CNS diseases i.e.:

Cerebral tumours, epilepsy (especially complex partial seizures of temporal lobe origin), cerebrovascular disease, post concussion syndrome. [1]

Risk Factors

• Underlying Medical Conditions:

  • The primary risk factor for OAD is the presence of an underlying medical condition.

  • Endocrine disorders: Hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, Cushing’s syndrome, pheochromocytoma
  • Cardiovascular diseases: Coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, heart failure
  • Respiratory illnesses: Asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Neurological conditions: Epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis
  • Other: Chronic pain, cancer, autoimmune diseases

• Medications and Substances:

  • Certain medications and substances can also induce anxiety or worsen existing anxiety symptoms. These include:

  • Stimulants: Caffeine, amphetamines, cocaine
  • Corticosteroids: Prednisone, methylprednisolone
  • Thyroid medications: Levothyroxine (if overdosed)
  • Withdrawal from substances: Alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids

• Individual Factors:

  • Family history of anxiety or mood disorders
  • Previous traumatic experiences
  • Personality traits: Neuroticism, high sensitivity to bodily sensations [4][5][6]

Pathogenesis

The underlying mechanism of OAD is the direct physiological impact of a medical condition or substance on the brain and body, leading to anxiety symptoms. The specific pathways vary depending on the underlying cause, but some common themes emerge:

1. Neurotransmitter Imbalance:

• Medical conditions can disrupt the delicate balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, GABA, and dopamine, which play crucial roles in regulating mood and anxiety.

2. Hormonal Dysregulation:

• Endocrine disorders like hyperthyroidism or Cushing’s syndrome lead to hormonal fluctuations that can directly impact the brain and trigger anxiety.

3. Physiological Stress Response:

• Medical conditions often activate the body’s stress response system, leading to elevated cortisol levels, increased heart rate, and other physiological changes associated with anxiety.

4. Direct Effects on the Brain:

• Certain neurological conditions or medications can directly impact brain structures involved in emotional processing and anxiety regulation. [4][6]

Pathophysiology

Organic Anxiety Disorder (OAD) stems from the direct physiological impact of a medical condition or substance on the brain and body, leading to anxiety symptoms.

Key Mechanisms:

• Neurotransmitter Imbalance:

  • Medical conditions or substances can disrupt neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, GABA, and dopamine, crucial for mood and anxiety regulation.
  • For example, hyperthyroidism can increase norepinephrine levels, leading to heightened anxiety.

• Hormonal Dysregulation:

  • Endocrine disorders like hyperthyroidism or Cushing’s syndrome lead to hormonal fluctuations (e.g., cortisol, thyroid hormones) directly impacting brain regions involved in anxiety.

• Physiological Stress Response:

  • Medical conditions activate the body’s stress response system, raising cortisol, increasing heart rate, and causing other physiological changes linked to anxiety.
  • Chronic pain or respiratory illnesses can constantly trigger this response, leading to persistent anxiety.

• Direct Brain Effects:

  • Neurological conditions or medications can directly affect brain structures crucial for emotional processing and anxiety regulation (e.g., amygdala, prefrontal cortex).
  • Tumors, strokes, or certain drugs can disrupt these areas, causing anxiety symptoms. [4]

Types of Anxiety Disorder

Directly classifying Organic Anxiety Disorder (OAD) into specific subtypes isn’t a common approach in diagnostic manuals or literature. OAD is more often categorized based on the underlying medical condition or substance causing the anxiety symptoms. However, we can discuss some common presentations of OAD based on the underlying causes:

Common Presentations of OAD Based on Underlying Cause:

1. Endocrine-Related OAD:

• Hyperthyroidism: Excessive thyroid hormone can lead to nervousness, restlessness, irritability, and panic attacks.
• Hypothyroidism: Low thyroid hormone levels can cause fatigue, depression, and anxiety.
• Cushing’s syndrome: Excess cortisol production can result in mood swings, irritability, and anxiety.
• Pheochromocytoma: Rare adrenal gland tumor causing surges of adrenaline, leading to panic attacks and anxiety.

2. Cardiovascular-Related OAD:

• Coronary artery disease: Chest pain and shortness of breath associated with heart problems can trigger anxiety and panic.
• Arrhythmias: Irregular heartbeats can cause palpitations and a sense of impending doom, leading to anxiety.
• Heart failure: Difficulty breathing and fatigue can contribute to anxiety and fear.

3. Respiratory-Related OAD:

• Asthma: Wheezing and shortness of breath during asthma attacks can induce panic and anxiety.
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Breathing difficulties and decreased oxygen levels can lead to anxiety and fear.

4. Neurological-Related OAD:

• Epilepsy: Seizures can cause anxiety and fear, both before and after the event.
• Parkinson’s disease: Tremors and movement difficulties can contribute to anxiety and social withdrawal.
• Multiple sclerosis: Neurological symptoms and uncertainty about the disease progression can trigger anxiety.

5. Substance-Induced OAD:

• Stimulant use or withdrawal: Caffeine, amphetamines, or cocaine can cause anxiety and panic attacks, and withdrawal from these substances can worsen anxiety.
• Medication side effects: Certain medications (e.g., corticosteroids, thyroid medications) can induce anxiety as a side effect.
• Alcohol or benzodiazepine withdrawal: Abrupt cessation of these substances can lead to severe anxiety and panic. [4]

Clinical Feature

Organic Anxiety Disorder

Organic anxiety disorder, also known as substance/medication-induced anxiety disorder, is a condition where anxiety symptoms are directly caused by a medical condition, substance use, or medication side effects.

Clinical Features

The clinical presentation can vary depending on the underlying cause, but generally includes:

• Excessive Worry and Fear: Persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of life, often accompanied by a sense of impending doom or danger.
• Physical Symptoms: Rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, muscle tension, and fatigue are common.
• Panic Attacks: Sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort, peaking within minutes, with physical symptoms like palpitations, chest pain, and feelings of unreality or detachment.
• Restlessness and Agitation: Difficulty relaxing, feeling keyed up or on edge, and being easily startled.
• Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling or staying asleep, nightmares, or restless sleep.
• Cognitive Impairment: Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things.
• Avoidance Behavior: Avoiding situations or activities that trigger anxiety. [4]

Please note that diagnosing organic anxiety disorder requires a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional to rule out other potential causes and identify the underlying medical condition or substance contributing to the anxiety symptoms.

If you have concerns about anxiety symptoms, seeking professional evaluation is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Sign and symptoms of organic anxiety disorder

• Worry and tension that is usually exaggerated also ongoing
• Restlessness
• Irritability
• Tension – i.e. emotional and physical
• Frequent headaches
• Profuse sweating
• Difficulty with concentration
• Fatigue
• Trouble falling asleep
• Either Shaking or trembling
• Being startled easily also often. [3]

Clinical Examination

Organic anxiety disorder, also known as anxiety disorder due to a general medical condition, manifests with anxiety symptoms directly caused by an underlying physical health issue. The clinical presentation can vary depending on the specific medical condition, but common features include:

• Excessive Worry and Apprehension: Individuals experience persistent and unwarranted worry about their health, potential complications, or the impact of their illness on their lives.
• Panic Attacks: Sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort, accompanied by physical symptoms such as palpitations, sweating, trembling, and shortness of breath, may occur.
• Avoidance Behavior: Individuals may avoid situations or activities that trigger anxiety or remind them of their medical condition.
• Hypervigilance: Individuals might be excessively alert to bodily sensations, interpreting them as signs of worsening illness, even when there is no objective evidence.
• Restlessness and Irritability: Individuals might exhibit restlessness, agitation, or irritability due to their heightened anxiety levels.
• Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restful sleep is common due to persistent worry and physical discomfort. [7]

Diagnosis of Anxiety Disorder

The diagnosis of organic anxiety disorder involves a comprehensive assessment to establish a direct link between the anxiety symptoms and an underlying medical condition. Key components of the diagnostic process include:

• Thorough Medical History and Physical Examination: The healthcare professional will meticulously gather information about the individual’s medical history, including current and past illnesses, medications, surgeries, and family medical history. A comprehensive physical examination will be conducted to assess any physical signs or symptoms suggestive of a medical condition.

• Laboratory Tests and Imaging Studies: Depending on the suspected underlying cause, various laboratory tests, such as blood work or hormone levels, and imaging studies, like X-rays or MRIs, might be ordered to pinpoint the specific medical condition.

• Psychiatric Evaluation: A mental health professional will assess the individual’s anxiety symptoms, their severity, and their impact on daily functioning. They will use structured clinical interviews and standardized assessment tools to gather information and rule out other potential mental health disorders.

• Diagnostic Criteria: The diagnostic criteria for organic anxiety disorder are outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). The essential features include:

  • Prominent anxiety symptoms, such as excessive worry, panic attacks, or avoidance behavior.
  • Evidence from the history, physical examination, or laboratory findings that the anxiety symptoms are the direct physiological consequence of a general medical condition.
  • The anxiety symptoms cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.
  • The anxiety symptoms are not better explained by another mental disorder. [6]

Differential Diagnosis

When evaluating anxiety symptoms, healthcare professionals must meticulously rule out other potential mental health disorders and medical conditions that might mimic or co-occur with organic anxiety disorder. Some key differential diagnoses include:

• Primary Anxiety Disorders:

  • Panic Disorder: Characterized by recurrent unexpected panic attacks and persistent worry about future attacks.
  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Involves excessive worry and anxiety about various events or activities, lasting for at least six months.
  • Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD): Marked by intense fear or anxiety in social situations, leading to avoidance behaviors.
  • Specific Phobia: Intense fear or anxiety triggered by a specific object or situation.

• Other Mental Disorders:

  • Major Depressive Disorder: Can present with anxiety symptoms, such as restlessness and agitation, alongside feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest.
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Characterized by recurrent obsessions (unwanted thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive behaviors) that cause anxiety.
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, leading to anxiety symptoms, flashbacks, and nightmares.

• Medical Conditions:

  • Endocrine Disorders: Hyperthyroidism, hypoglycemia, and pheochromocytoma can cause anxiety symptoms due to hormonal imbalances.
  • Cardiovascular Diseases: Arrhythmias, heart failure, and mitral valve prolapse can mimic anxiety symptoms, such as palpitations and shortness of breath.
  • Respiratory Diseases: Asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pulmonary embolism can trigger anxiety due to difficulty breathing.
  • Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis can sometimes manifest with anxiety symptoms.
  • Substance-Related Disorders: Stimulant use or withdrawal from certain medications can induce anxiety symptoms. [4]

Complications

If left untreated or inadequately managed, organic anxiety disorder can lead to a range of complications that significantly impact an individual’s physical and mental well-being. These complications can include:

• Worsening of the Underlying Medical Condition: The persistent anxiety and stress associated with organic anxiety disorder can exacerbate the symptoms and progression of the underlying medical condition. For example, uncontrolled anxiety in individuals with heart disease can increase the risk of cardiac events.

• Impaired Quality of Life: Chronic anxiety can significantly disrupt daily functioning, leading to difficulties in work, relationships, and social activities. Individuals might experience social isolation, decreased productivity, and a reduced sense of well-being.

• Development of Other Mental Health Disorders: Organic anxiety disorder increases the vulnerability to developing other mental health conditions, such as major depressive disorder, substance use disorders, or other anxiety disorders.

• Increased Healthcare Utilization: Individuals with untreated organic anxiety disorder might frequently seek medical attention due to their heightened anxiety about their health. This can lead to unnecessary medical tests, procedures, and increased healthcare costs.

• Suicidal Ideation and Behavior: In severe cases, the overwhelming anxiety and hopelessness associated with organic anxiety disorder can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. [5]

Investigations

As organic anxiety disorder stems from an underlying medical condition, the investigations primarily aim to identify and assess that specific condition. The choice of investigations depends on the suspected underlying cause and the individual’s clinical presentation. Common investigations include:

• Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination is essential to identify any physical signs or symptoms suggestive of an underlying medical illness. This includes checking vital signs, evaluating organ systems, and assessing neurological function.

• Laboratory Tests:

  • Blood Tests: These may include complete blood count (CBC), thyroid function tests, blood glucose levels, electrolyte levels, liver and kidney function tests, and tests for specific infections or autoimmune diseases.
  • Urine Tests: To screen for infections, drug use, or metabolic disorders.
  • Hormone Levels: To assess adrenal gland function or identify hormonal imbalances.

• Imaging Studies:

  • X-rays: To examine the lungs, bones, or other internal structures.
  • CT Scans or MRIs: To obtain detailed images of the brain or other organs.
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): To assess heart function and rhythm.
  • Electroencephalogram (EEG): To evaluate brain electrical activity, particularly in cases where seizures are suspected.

• Specialized Tests:

  • Pulmonary Function Tests: To assess lung function in suspected respiratory conditions.
  • Cardiac Stress Tests: To evaluate heart function under stress and rule out cardiac causes of anxiety symptoms.
  • Endoscopic Procedures: To examine the digestive tract or other internal organs, depending on the suspected underlying medical condition. [8]

Treatment of Anxiety disorder

1. Treatment of the underlying organic cause, if treatable.
2. Symptomatic treatment with benzodiazepines, beta-blockers (such as propranolol), cognitive behaviour therapy, also relaxation techniques may be needed in Organic Anxiety Disorder. [1]

Prevention of Anxiety Disorder

As organic anxiety disorder is directly linked to underlying medical conditions, its prevention focuses primarily on maintaining good physical health and managing any existing medical illnesses effectively. Here are some key aspects to consider:

• Prompt Diagnosis and Treatment of Medical Conditions: Early detection and effective management of medical conditions can significantly reduce the risk of developing or exacerbating anxiety symptoms associated with them. Regular health checkups, screenings, and adherence to treatment plans are crucial.

• Healthy Lifestyle: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can enhance physical health and mental well-being, contributing to anxiety prevention. This includes:

  • Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity has been shown to reduce anxiety levels and improve mood.
  • Balanced Diet: A nutritious diet provides the body with essential nutrients, promoting optimal physical and mental health.
  • Sufficient Sleep: Adequate sleep is vital for stress regulation and emotional well-being, contributing to anxiety prevention.
  • Stress Management Techniques: Learning and practicing stress management techniques, such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga, can help manage anxiety and promote resilience.

• Avoiding Substance Misuse: Excessive alcohol or drug use can worsen anxiety symptoms and interact negatively with medications used to treat medical conditions, potentially increasing the risk of developing organic anxiety disorder.

• Seeking Professional Help for Mental Health Concerns: If you experience significant anxiety or other mental health symptoms, even in the absence of a diagnosed medical condition, seeking professional help is crucial. Early intervention and appropriate treatment can prevent the development of anxiety disorders and improve overall well-being. [9]

Homeopathic Treatment of Organic anxiety disorder 

Homeopathy treats the person as a whole. It means that homeopathic treatment focuses on the patient as a person, as well as his pathological condition. The homeopathic medicines selected after a full individualizing examination and case-analysis. 

Which includes 

• The medical history of the patient, 
• Physical and mental constitution, 
• Family history, 
• Presenting symptoms, 
• Underlying pathology, 
• Possible causative factors etc. 

A miasmatic tendency (predisposition/susceptibility) also often taken into account for the treatment of chronic conditions. 

What Homoeopathic doctors do? 

A homeopathy doctor tries to treat more than just the presenting symptoms. The focus is usually on what caused the disease condition? Why ‘this patient’ is sick ‘this way’?  The disease diagnosis is important but in homeopathy, the cause of disease not just probed to the level of bacteria and viruses. Other factors like mental, emotional and physical stress that could predispose a person to illness also looked for. Now a days, even modern medicine also considers a large number of diseases as psychosomatic. The correct homeopathy remedy tries to correct this disease predisposition.  The focus is not on curing the disease but to cure the person who is sick, to restore the health. If a disease pathology not very advanced, homeopathy remedies do give a hope for cure but even in incurable cases, the quality of life can greatly improve with homeopathic medicines. 

Homeopathic Medicines for Anxiety disorder: 

The homeopathic remedies (medicines) given below indicate the therapeutic affinity but this is not a complete and definite guide to the homeopathy treatment of this condition. The symptoms listed against each homeopathic remedy may not be directly related to this disease because in homeopathy general symptoms and constitutional indications also taken into account for selecting a remedy, potency and repetition of dose by Homeopathic doctor.  So, here we describe homeopathic medicine only for reference and education purpose. Do not take medicines without consulting registered homeopathic doctor (BHMS or M.D. Homeopath).  

Constitutional Remedies:

A constitutional remedy is a single remedy selected based on the individual’s overall constitution and totality of symptoms. It aims to address the underlying imbalance and strengthen the vital force.

Specific Remedies for Anxiety:

Several homeopathic remedies are traditionally used to address anxiety symptoms, such as:

• Aconitum napellus: For sudden, intense anxiety with fear and restlessness.
• Argentum nitricum: For anticipatory anxiety and fear of performance.
• Arsenicum album: For anxiety with restlessness, fear of being alone, and a desire for company.
• Calcarea carbonica: For anxiety with insecurity, fear of heights, and a need for routine.
• Gelsemium sempervirens: For anticipatory anxiety with trembling, weakness, and diarrhea.
• Ignatia amara: For anxiety with grief, mood swings, and a tendency to sigh.
• Lycopodium clavatum: For anxiety with lack of confidence, fear of failure, and digestive issues.
• Pulsatilla nigricans: For anxiety with moodiness, tearfulness, and a need for reassurance. [10]

Diet & Regimen of Anxiety Disorder

Dietary Recommendations

• Focus on Whole Foods: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein provides essential nutrients and promotes stable blood sugar levels, which can help regulate mood and energy levels.
• Limit Processed Foods: Processed foods, high in added sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial ingredients, can contribute to inflammation and blood sugar fluctuations, potentially exacerbating anxiety symptoms.
• Prioritize Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3s found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, walnuts, and chia seeds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and mood-boosting effects.
• Include Magnesium-Rich Foods: Magnesium plays a vital role in regulating neurotransmitters and stress response. Incorporate foods like leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
• Reduce Caffeine and Alcohol Intake: Caffeine and alcohol can disrupt sleep patterns and increase anxiety levels.
  
  Limit or avoid them, especially in the evenings.

Regimen Recommendations

• Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity, even moderate exercise like walking or yoga, can reduce anxiety symptoms, improve mood, and promote overall well-being.
• Stress Management Techniques: Incorporate relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or mindfulness into your daily routine. These practices can help manage stress and anxiety levels effectively.
• Adequate Sleep: Prioritize getting sufficient sleep, as sleep deprivation can worsen anxiety and affect overall health.
  
  Establish a consistent sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine.
• Social Support: Maintain strong social connections and engage in activities you enjoy. Social interaction and support can help reduce feelings of isolation and promote emotional well-being.[11]

Do’s & Don’ts of Anxiety Disorder

Organic Anxiety disorder do’s & don’ts  

Do’s:

• Seek professional medical advice: If you’re experiencing anxiety symptoms that you suspect are linked to a medical condition, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
• Prioritize treatment for the underlying medical condition: Adhering to the prescribed treatment plan for the medical condition is crucial for managing anxiety symptoms and improving overall well-being.
• Adopt a healthy lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and stress management techniques can all contribute to reducing anxiety and promoting overall health.
• Communicate openly with your healthcare providers: Share your concerns and anxieties openly with your doctors and therapists. This allows them to provide appropriate support and tailor treatment plans effectively.
• Join support groups or seek therapy: Connecting with others who experience similar challenges can provide valuable emotional support and practical coping strategies. Therapy can help you develop healthy coping mechanisms and address any underlying emotional issues.
• Practice relaxation techniques: Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can help manage anxiety symptoms and promote calmness.
• Be patient with yourself: Recovery takes time. Be kind to yourself and acknowledge your progress, even if it’s slow.

Don’ts:

• Self-diagnose or self-treat: Avoid self-diagnosing organic anxiety disorder or attempting to treat it without professional guidance. It’s crucial to identify and address the underlying medical condition.
• Ignore your anxiety: Don’t dismiss or minimize your anxiety symptoms. Addressing them is essential for your well-being and can prevent complications.
• Rely on self-medication or substance use: Avoid self-medicating with alcohol or drugs, as these can worsen anxiety and interact negatively with prescribed medications.
• Isolate yourself: Don’t withdraw from social interactions or avoid activities you enjoy. Social connection and engagement are important for mental health.
• Compare yourself to others: Everyone’s experience with anxiety is unique. Focus on your own progress and avoid comparing yourself to others.
• Give up on treatment: If one treatment approach doesn’t work, don’t lose hope. There are various options available, and finding the right combination for you might take time.

Terminology of Anxiety Disorder

 General Terminologies 

Organic Anxiety Disorder:

Also known as anxiety disorder due to a general medical condition. This refers to anxiety symptoms that are directly caused by an underlying physical health issue.

Anxiety:

A feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about an imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome.

In the context of organic anxiety disorder, the anxiety is a direct physiological consequence of the underlying medical condition.

General Medical Condition:

A physical illness or disorder that affects the structure or function of the body. Examples include heart disease, respiratory conditions, hormonal imbalances, and neurological disorders.

Physiological Consequence:

This means the anxiety symptoms are a direct result of the physiological changes or disruptions caused by the medical condition. For instance, difficulty breathing due to asthma can trigger anxiety.

Clinically Significant Distress:

The anxiety symptoms are severe enough to cause significant distress or impairment in the individual’s daily life, affecting their ability to function at work, in relationships, or other important areas.

Differential Diagnosis:

The process of distinguishing a particular disorder from other conditions that present with similar symptoms. In the case of organic anxiety disorder, it’s important to rule out primary anxiety disorders or other mental health conditions.

Comorbidity:

The presence of two or more disorders or illnesses in an individual simultaneously. Organic anxiety disorder can co-occur with other mental health conditions like depression or substance use disorders.

Prognosis:

The likely course or outcome of a disorder. The prognosis for organic anxiety disorder often depends on the underlying medical condition and its treatability.

Etiology:

The cause or origin of a disorder. In organic anxiety disorder, the etiology is the underlying medical condition that triggers the anxiety symptoms.

Psychophysiological:

The relationship between psychological processes and the body’s physiological functions. Organic anxiety disorder involves a strong psychophysiological connection, where the physiological changes caused by the medical condition directly impact the individual’s psychological state, leading to anxiety.

Homeopathic Remedies for Organic Anxiety Disorder

While the specific remedies will depend on individual symptoms and the underlying medical condition, some commonly used remedies for anxiety in general that may be helpful in organic anxiety disorder include:

Aconitum napellus:

For sudden, intense anxiety, often triggered by a fright or shock.

Argentum nitricum:

For anticipatory anxiety, performance anxiety, and fear of open spaces.

Arsenicum album:

For anxiety with restlessness, fear of being alone, and insecurity about health.

Calcarea carbonica:

For anxiety with a sense of overwhelm, fear of heights, and a need for routine.

Gelsemium sempervirens:

For anticipatory anxiety with trembling, weakness, and stage fright.

Ignatia amara:

For anxiety with grief, mood swings, and suppressed emotions.

Kali phosphoricum:

For anxiety with exhaustion, mental fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.

Lycopodium clavatum:

For anxiety with lack of confidence, fear of failure, and digestive issues.

Natrum muriaticum:

For anxiety with sadness, dwelling on the past, and a desire for solitude.

Pulsatilla nigricans:

For anxiety with moodiness, tearfulness, and a need for reassurance.

References of Anxiety Disorder

1. A Short Textbook of Psychiatry by Niraj Ahuja / Ch 3.
2. http://apps.who.int/classifications/icd10/ browse/2016/en#/F05.
3. National Mental Health Survey (NMHS) 2016

4. Kaplan & Sadock’s Comprehensive Textbook of Psychiatry Edition: 11th Edition Writers: Benjamin J. Sadock, Virginia A. Sadock, Pedro Ruiz
   Year of Publication: 2024 Publication: Wolters Kluwer

5. The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook (7th Edition, 2018) by Edmund J. Bourne
6. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR) (2022) by the American Psychiatric Association
7. The American Psychiatric Association Publishing Textbook of Anxiety, Trauma, and OCD-Related Disorders, Third Edition, Edited by Naomi Simon, M.D., MSc, Eric Hollander, M.D., Barbara O. Rothbaum, Ph.D., A.B.P.P., and Dan J. Stein, M.D., Ph.D. Published in 2020 by American Psychiatric Association Publishing
8. Current Medical Diagnosis & Treatment 2024. Edited by Maxine A. Papadakis, M.D., Stephen J. McPhee, M.D., and Michael W. Rabow, M.D.Published in 2023 by McGraw Hill
9. The Upward Spiral: Using Neuroscience to Reverse the Course of Depression, One Small Change at a Time. by Alex Korb. Published in 2015 by New Harbinger Publications
10. Homeopathy for Anxiety and Depression: A Practical Guide to Treatment and Self-Help by Miranda Castro. Published in 2011 by North Atlantic Books
11. The Anti-Anxiety Diet: A Whole Body Program to Stop Racing Thoughts, Banish Worry and Live Panic-Free, by Ali Miller, Published in 2016 by Hay House Inc.

Also Search As

People can search for homeopathic articles on Organic Anxiety Disorder using the following methods:

Online Search:

• Search engines: Use search engines like Google, DuckDuckGo, or Bing. Enter search terms such as:

  • "homeopathic treatment for organic anxiety disorder"
  • "homeopathy for anxiety due to medical conditions"
  • "homeopathic remedies for anxiety caused by physical illness"
  • "homeopathy and organic anxiety"

• Homeopathic websites & forums: Look for reputable homeopathic websites and online forums that discuss various health conditions, including anxiety disorders.

Offline Search:

• Homeopathic libraries & bookstores: Visit libraries or bookstores with sections dedicated to alternative medicine or homeopathy. Look for books or journals discussing anxiety disorders and their homeopathic treatment.
• Consult a homeopathic practitioner: Schedule a consultation with a qualified homeopathic practitioner. They can provide insights into homeopathic approaches to managing anxiety and recommend relevant resources.

let’s explore the diverse avenues for researching organic anxiety disorder:

Online Resources:

• Search Engines: Utilize popular search engines like Google, Bing, or DuckDuckGo. Employ specific search terms such as:

  • "Organic anxiety disorder"
  • "Anxiety due to medical conditions"
  • "Anxiety caused by physical illness"
  • "Secondary anxiety disorder"

• Medical Websites and Databases: Access reliable medical websites like Mayo Clinic, WebMD, or the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Search their databases for articles or information on organic anxiety disorder.

• Mental Health Organizations: Explore the websites of mental health organizations like the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) or the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). They may have resources or articles discussing anxiety related to medical conditions.

• Academic Journals and Databases: Utilize online academic databases like PubMed or Google Scholar to access peer-reviewed research articles on organic anxiety disorder. Search using keywords like "anxiety," "medical conditions," and "psychiatry."

Offline Resources:

• Libraries: Visit your local library or university library and search their catalog for books or journals on anxiety disorders, focusing on those discussing anxiety related to medical conditions.

• Bookstores: Explore the medical or psychology sections of bookstores to find books on anxiety disorders, including those addressing organic anxiety.

• Healthcare Professionals: Consult with your doctor, psychiatrist, or other mental health professionals for information and guidance on organic anxiety disorder. They can provide insights tailored to your specific situation.