Managing Anxiety Symptoms: Eye Strain, Fatigue, and Coping Strategies

Q: Managing Anxiety Symptoms: Eye Strain, Fatigue, and Coping Strategies

Hello： Your description actually reflects typical symptoms of anxiety disorder, which indeed often has recurring episodes. <br>However, you are doing well by seeking professional help and consistently taking medication for about eight months. <br>Regarding the dosage, it is impor

If you experience eye strain and fatigue during periods of anxiety, consider the following steps: 1. Take Breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to reduce eye strain. 2. Practice Relaxation Techniques: Engage in deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga to help manage

Hello Doctor, I am a junior student, and I have a question.
I suffer from anxiety disorder, and during episodes of anxiety, I often find myself in a state of worry and unease without knowing why, and it is usually without a specific theme, unlike having a concrete issue to be troubled or concerned about.
I have seen a doctor and have been taking medication for about 8 months.
The medication I am currently taking is an SSRI antidepressant.
I take it regularly every day, but only one pill.
The doctor mentioned that the maximum dosage for this medication is four pills a day, so my dosage is not considered high.
However, whenever anxiety strikes, I experience significant eye strain, high eye pressure, and a tight feeling in my head.
The more I try to alleviate the anxiety in the moment, sometimes it backfires, as I worry that these anxiety symptoms will affect my performance, leading to an inability to release my anxiety.
I have high expectations of myself, and my personality is such that I strive to do my best in everything.
I do not want my anxiety symptoms to impact my performance.
I know that the more I care about this, it may put even more pressure on myself.
The doctor has advised me to try to distract myself, and I have been making efforts to do so.
Often, when I shift my focus to other activities, my anxiety seems to be temporarily alleviated.
However, if I have a moment of free time and start thinking about my anxiety, the sudden wave of fear returns, continuously tormenting me.
My eyes become strained, my eye pressure rises, and I feel easily fatigued.
I wonder if the doctor has had similar patients and if there are any suggestions.
Additionally, I would like to ask if anxiety disorder can be "cyclical," meaning it can flare up after a certain period, or if it is related to stress or other external factors that may indirectly trigger anxiety episodes.
Thank you, Doctor, for taking the time to read this lengthy message; I truly appreciate it.

Hua Hua, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/11/15

Dr. Chen Wenke reply Psychiatry

Hello: Your description actually reflects typical symptoms of anxiety disorder, which indeed often has recurring episodes.
However, you are doing well by seeking professional help and consistently taking medication for about eight months.
Regarding the dosage, it is important to closely collaborate with your doctor.
It is also important to understand that taking medication does not completely eliminate anxiety symptoms, as certain life situations can still trigger anxiety.
Therefore, learning how to manage sudden anxiety episodes is an important aspect beyond medication treatment.
You might consider discussing suitable strategies with your physician.

For individuals who set high standards for themselves and strive for perfection, as you mentioned, this can indeed lead to increased pressure.
I believe you are aware of your issues but may not know how to adjust or change your behavior.
Your doctor has advised you to try to shift your focus, and you have been making efforts to implement this.
Redirecting your attention to other activities seems to temporarily alleviate your anxiety, which indicates that this approach is effective.
Therefore, practicing effective techniques regularly until you become more proficient is beneficial.
As for whether anxiety disorder has a 'cyclical' nature, it can indeed refer to episodes that occur over a period of time or be related to stress or other external factors that may indirectly trigger anxiety.
Generally, anxiety disorders are indeed associated with external stressors.

Finally, my advice to you is: it is clear that you are a person who takes life seriously, but sometimes it is beneficial to allow yourself to relax temporarily, step away from the pressures of society, and enjoy the little pleasures you desire.
This can be a fun and joyful experience! Wishing you happiness, Dr.
Chen Wenkai.

Reply Date: 2016/11/15

More Info

Managing anxiety symptoms, particularly those that manifest as eye strain, fatigue, and general discomfort, can be quite challenging, especially for students like yourself who are under significant pressure. Your experience of feeling a persistent sense of worry without a clear cause is a common symptom of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The physical symptoms you describe, such as eye strain, high eye pressure, and tension headaches, can indeed be linked to anxiety.
Firstly, it’s important to acknowledge that anxiety can manifest in various physical forms, and your symptoms are not uncommon among individuals dealing with anxiety disorders. The strain you feel in your eyes and the accompanying fatigue may be exacerbated by prolonged periods of focus, such as studying or using screens, which can lead to digital eye strain. This condition is characterized by discomfort in the eyes and surrounding areas, often accompanied by headaches and fatigue, particularly in individuals who spend long hours studying or working on computers.

Regarding your medication, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed for anxiety and depression. While they can be effective in managing symptoms, it’s crucial to understand that they may not eliminate anxiety entirely. Some individuals continue to experience anxiety symptoms even while on medication, particularly during stressful periods or when facing new challenges. It’s also worth noting that the effectiveness of SSRIs can vary from person to person, and finding the right dosage or medication may take time and close collaboration with your healthcare provider.

You mentioned that you are trying to manage your anxiety by shifting your focus to other activities. This is a valuable strategy known as distraction, which can provide temporary relief from anxious thoughts. However, it’s also essential to develop more sustainable coping mechanisms. Here are some strategies that may help you manage your anxiety symptoms more effectively:
1. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce anxiety levels. These techniques encourage you to focus on the present moment and can help alleviate the physical symptoms of anxiety.

2. Regular Physical Activity: Engaging in regular exercise can significantly reduce anxiety symptoms. Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, and can also improve sleep quality, which is often disrupted by anxiety.

3. Sleep Hygiene: Since you mentioned feeling fatigued, ensuring you have good sleep hygiene is crucial. This includes maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a restful environment, and avoiding stimulants like caffeine close to bedtime.

4. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): If you haven’t already, consider discussing the possibility of CBT with your healthcare provider. CBT is a structured, goal-oriented therapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with anxiety.

5. Limit Screen Time: Given that you experience eye strain, it may be beneficial to take regular breaks from screens. The 20-20-20 rule is a helpful guideline: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to reduce eye strain.

6. Social Support: Sharing your feelings with friends, family, or a support group can provide emotional relief and help you feel less isolated in your experiences.

As for the cyclical nature of anxiety, it is indeed common for anxiety symptoms to fluctuate based on various factors, including stress levels, life changes, and external pressures. Many individuals find that their anxiety symptoms can intensify during particularly stressful periods, such as exams or significant life transitions. Recognizing these patterns can help you prepare and implement coping strategies during high-stress times.

In conclusion, while managing anxiety can be a complex journey, incorporating a combination of medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, and self-care practices can lead to significant improvements in your symptoms. It’s essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about your experiences and any adjustments that may be needed in your treatment plan. Remember, you are not alone in this, and seeking help is a strong and positive step toward managing your anxiety effectively.

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