Anxiety Disorders and Autonomic Dysfunction: Impact on Men's Health

Anxiety disorder, autonomic nervous system dysfunction?

I have anxiety disorder and it seems I also have autonomic nervous system dysfunction, and I have been suffering from these conditions for about 17 years.
This is what my doctor and I found out through research.
Additionally, I have a history of taking medication for 15 years, but it has not effectively improved my headaches.
I feel that my headaches are often related to excessive stress, which has also led to my depression and hypertension.

I would like to ask if anxiety disorder, autonomic nervous system dysfunction, and depression in men can lead to osteoporosis and low testosterone levels, which in turn could cause height loss.
I understand that research suggests this may occur in women, and while I have measured my height and it seems I have not experienced any loss, I am uncertain about whether there has been any reduction.
Thank you for your time, doctor.

Nìmíng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/22

Dr. Zhang Gengjia reply Psychiatry

Dear Sir/Madam,
From your letter, it is clear that you are experiencing discomfort and distress due to both anxiety disorder and physical ailments.

1.
Facing an uncertain future, anxiety disorder is a common condition in modern society.
It is a chronic illness that requires long-term treatment for recovery.

2.
Anxiety disorder is characterized by episodes of exacerbation, remission, recovery, and relapse.
More than half of patients may experience a recurrence of symptoms even after they have improved.
Due to individual differences in physiology, it may take time to identify the most suitable medication, so please be patient and cooperate with your physician.
3.
In terms of pharmacological treatment, each primary medication requires 4 to 6 weeks to assess its efficacy.
I recommend that you keep track of the duration and frequency of any discomfort you experience.
4.
In addition to medication and psychotherapy, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive, anesthesia-free, highly safe treatment option that does not require hospitalization and can improve anxiety and depressive symptoms.
Please discuss any psychosomatic issues with your physician during your follow-up visit, as some symptoms may be related to the original condition, while others may be side effects of the medication.
Our clinic is open for consultations from Monday to Friday, both in the morning and afternoon.
I encourage you to consider visiting the clinic for a personal assessment of your symptoms, so we can collaboratively determine the best course of action for you.
Wishing you mental and physical well-being.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Chang Geng-Jia
Department of Psychiatry

Reply Date: 2021/10/22

More Info

Anxiety disorders and autonomic dysfunction can significantly impact men's health, particularly when they persist over long periods, as in your case. The interplay between anxiety, autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysfunction, and other health issues such as depression and hypertension can create a complex web of symptoms that affect both physical and mental well-being.

Firstly, it's important to understand how anxiety disorders can influence the autonomic nervous system. The ANS regulates involuntary bodily functions, including heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion. When someone experiences chronic anxiety, the body can enter a state of heightened arousal, often referred to as the "fight or flight" response. This can lead to symptoms such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and gastrointestinal disturbances, which you may be experiencing as headaches and other physical symptoms.

Regarding your concerns about osteoporosis and testosterone levels, research indicates that chronic stress and anxiety can indeed have negative effects on bone health and hormone levels. Chronic anxiety and depression can lead to increased cortisol levels, a stress hormone that, when elevated over time, can contribute to bone density loss. While studies have shown that women are more commonly affected by osteoporosis, men are not immune. Low testosterone levels, which can be a result of chronic stress and anxiety, are also linked to decreased bone density. Testosterone plays a crucial role in maintaining bone health in men, and low levels can lead to an increased risk of osteoporosis.

As for your height, while it is less common for adults to experience significant height loss, it can occur, particularly in older age or due to conditions affecting bone density. Regular monitoring of your bone health through medical evaluations, including bone density tests, can provide more clarity on this issue.

In terms of managing your anxiety and its associated symptoms, it is crucial to work closely with your healthcare provider. Since you have been on medication for a long time without significant improvement in your headaches, it may be worth discussing alternative treatments or therapies. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, and lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise and a balanced diet can also be beneficial in managing anxiety and improving overall health.

Additionally, addressing your hypertension is vital, as high blood pressure can further complicate your health issues. Lifestyle changes, such as reducing salt intake, increasing physical activity, and managing stress through relaxation techniques, can help control blood pressure levels.

In conclusion, the relationship between anxiety disorders, autonomic dysfunction, and men's health is intricate and multifaceted. It is essential to take a holistic approach to treatment, considering both mental and physical health aspects. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider, along with lifestyle modifications and possibly exploring different therapeutic options, can lead to better management of your symptoms and overall health. If you have concerns about bone density or testosterone levels, discussing these with your doctor can lead to appropriate testing and interventions.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Anxiety and Stress: A Journey Through Mental Health Challenges

Hello, doctor. During high school, I always felt the urge to go to the bathroom whenever there was an assembly. At that time, the strict environment at school made me feel like I was just there to avoid punishment. In college, I reached a breaking point and sought help from a psy...

Dr. Ding Shuyan reply Psychiatry
Hello, based on your concerns, I cannot conclude whether your discomfort is due to excessive stress. Since you are still young, theoretically, there shouldn't be any major issues with your health, and you have already consulted a psychiatrist. My response may be that autonom...

Understanding Autonomic Nervous System Disorders and Their Impact on Anxiety

Hello, doctor. I have anxiety and panic issues, as well as health anxiety. My body has been in a constant state of tension, and I have been experiencing persistent symptoms such as chest tightness and dizziness. These symptoms started appearing at the end of last year; initially,...

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry
Hello Chiao: It seems that you have undergone many physical examinations with no significant abnormalities. Based on the symptoms of discomfort you are experiencing, it is very likely that you are dealing with autonomic nervous system dysfunction. The autonomic nervous system ref...

Managing Anxiety and Autonomic Nervous System Disorders: A Patient's Journey

Hello, Doctor. This is my first time asking a question here. I was diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder at the age of 22, but after several years of treatment, I am no longer on medication. Last year, due to some noise and panic issues, my sleep was severely affected. Howe...

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry
Hi there! Your situation may be indicative of hypochondriasis, a condition where symptoms fluctuate with psychological stress. I suggest you reflect on any recent stressors and consider ways to cope with them. If necessary, you can ask your psychiatrist for a referral for psychot...

Managing Panic and Anxiety from Autonomic Nervous System Disorders

Two weeks ago, I was diagnosed with autonomic nervous system dysfunction and panic disorder at a hospital in China. I've been experiencing anxiety and panic attacks over the past few weeks. The doctor prescribed me Xanax to take as needed. Three days ago, I encountered a sit...

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, internet user: I'm not entirely clear on your main issue, but I will do my best to respond based on my understanding. Masturbation and feelings of chest tightness, panic, and anxiety should not be related. Sexual desire is a normal physiological response, and generall...