the Link Between Autonomic Nervous System Disorders and Panic Symptoms

Q: the Link Between Autonomic Nervous System Disorders and Panic Symptoms

Hello Xuan： Physical discomfort can lead to psychological stress, and psychological stress can, in turn, exacerbate physical symptoms. <br>Conversely, when anxiety decreases, physical discomfort may also improve. <br>Symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, gastrointestinal discomfort,

Is it autonomic nervous system dysfunction combined with panic disorder?

I have been experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort frequently, with three episodes occurring in the past three months.
This time, it has been three weeks and I am still not fully recovered.
Initially, I noticed some abdominal bloating, and two days later, I started feeling nauseous and completely lost my appetite, which made me suspect that I might be pregnant.
However, the obstetrician said it was unlikely that I was pregnant, but I was still very anxious until my period came.
I also took a pregnancy test, which confirmed a negative result.
However, my gastrointestinal issues have not improved; sometimes I can eat, but other times I cannot eat at all, and eating certain foods causes bloating.
Currently, I also have symptoms of a cold and bronchitis.
At first, I was worried about being pregnant, which made me very anxious every day.
Even after adjusting my routine, my stomach still hasn’t improved.
This situation has persisted for a long time, leading me to feel very hopeless and distressed.
I wonder why my condition won’t get better.
Occasionally, I feel dizzy when I stand up, or I experience sudden tinnitus, eyelid twitching, numbness in my hands and feet, and even yesterday I felt like my whole body was shaking.
My heart rate was measured at 99 beats per minute at the ENT clinic, and the doctor said it was too fast, but my thyroid gland did not show any swelling.
Last night, I had trouble sleeping and lay awake for a long time before falling asleep, feeling like I hadn’t really slept because my mind was racing.
I kept waking up and had shallow sleep, often dreaming that I was being chased.
After getting up, I felt very short of breath.
Could these gastrointestinal issues be related to autonomic nervous system dysfunction? Previously, my bowel movements were either difficult to pass or required a lot of effort, but I only started having diarrhea yesterday after three weeks without any diarrhea.
Recently, I have been feeling mentally tense and physically exhausted.

xuan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/12

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello Xuan: Physical discomfort can lead to psychological stress, and psychological stress can, in turn, exacerbate physical symptoms.
Conversely, when anxiety decreases, physical discomfort may also improve.
Symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, gastrointestinal discomfort, dizziness, numbness in the limbs, trembling, and nightmares may be indicative of anxiety or panic disorders.
It is advisable to consult a psychosomatic or psychiatric specialist for further evaluation.
With appropriate treatment, most cases of anxiety and panic can gradually improve.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Reply Date: 2017/04/12

More Info

The symptoms you are experiencing, including gastrointestinal discomfort, anxiety, and autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysregulation, are indeed interconnected. The autonomic nervous system, which regulates involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate, can be significantly influenced by psychological stress and anxiety. When the ANS is out of balance, it can lead to a range of physical symptoms, including those affecting the gastrointestinal system.

Your gastrointestinal issues, such as bloating, nausea, and changes in bowel habits, can be exacerbated by anxiety and stress. This is often referred to as the gut-brain axis, where the brain and gut communicate closely. Stress can lead to increased gut motility or decreased motility, resulting in symptoms like diarrhea or constipation. Additionally, anxiety can cause muscle tension in the abdomen, further contributing to discomfort.

The feelings of dizziness, ear ringing, and the sensation of your body shaking can also be manifestations of ANS dysregulation. When the sympathetic nervous system (the "fight or flight" response) is activated due to stress or anxiety, it can lead to physical symptoms such as increased heart rate, shallow breathing, and muscle tension. This can create a cycle where anxiety leads to physical symptoms, which in turn increases anxiety.

Your experience of feeling overwhelmed, having trouble sleeping, and experiencing vivid dreams can also be linked to anxiety and stress. Poor sleep can further exacerbate anxiety and lead to a decline in overall health, creating a vicious cycle. The feeling of not being able to breathe deeply or feeling fatigued upon waking can be related to both anxiety and potential sleep disturbances, which are common in individuals experiencing high levels of stress.

To address these issues, it is essential to adopt a holistic approach that includes both medical and psychological interventions. Here are some strategies that may help:
1. Consultation with Healthcare Professionals: Continue to work with your healthcare providers, including a gastroenterologist and a mental health professional. They can help rule out any underlying medical conditions and provide appropriate treatment options.

2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This form of therapy can be particularly effective for anxiety and panic symptoms. It helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety.

3. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. These techniques can also help regulate the autonomic nervous system.

4. Dietary Adjustments: Pay attention to your diet and identify any foods that may trigger gastrointestinal symptoms. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding high-fat or spicy foods may help.

5. Regular Physical Activity: Engaging in regular exercise can help reduce anxiety and improve overall well-being. It can also promote healthy digestion and improve sleep quality.

6. Sleep Hygiene: Establish a regular sleep routine, create a comfortable sleep environment, and avoid screens before bedtime to improve sleep quality.

7. Medication: If necessary, discuss with your doctor the possibility of medication to help manage anxiety and gastrointestinal symptoms. Medications such as SSRIs or anxiolytics may be beneficial.

8. Support Groups: Consider joining a support group for individuals dealing with anxiety or gastrointestinal issues. Sharing experiences with others can provide comfort and coping strategies.

In conclusion, your gastrointestinal symptoms and anxiety are likely linked through the autonomic nervous system. By addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of your health, you can work towards alleviating your symptoms and improving your overall quality of life. Remember to be patient with yourself as you navigate this process, as healing often takes time.

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