Maybe you've heard the term chronic anxiety disorder and you want to know exactly what this term means.  It sounds pretty ominous—but, like lots of difficulties we face in life, there are answers.  First, let's try and define chronic anxiety disorder.

 An anxiety disorder is an irrational concern or dread of a particular situation, place or circumstance.  Anxiety, in and of itself, is not bad.  Our bodies are designed to recognize times when we should be concerned about our safety, or the safety of others, and so we are given warning signs that we need to be careful and protect ourselves from the perceived harm.  However, when the anxiety becomes irrational and excessive it usually evolves into what is termed a disorder.  It becomes chronic when an anxiety disorder becomes a permanent and overbearing obstacle to a person living a normal life.

 Over time chronic anxiety disorder will begin to interfere and impact other areas of life.  A person suffering from chronic anxiety disorder will most likely start to experience other health ramifications as a result of the continual strain that is placed on their bodies.  Here are some of the physical issues that may develop:

• Arthritis—is a disease that causes inflammation and pain in the joints where bones touch.  It usually develops as people age, but can also be the result of injuries that have damaged or impacted the joints.  People with chronic anxiety are more likely to experience arthritis because of the stress and strain placed on the joints as a result of the constant tension a person with anxiety is likely to have.
• Migraines—are very intense sensations of pain in the temple area(s), the sides of the head or behind an eye or ear.  The pain can last anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days.  People with migraines will experience upset stomachs and will feel increased pain when exposed to sounds and light.
• Back Pain—is used to describe continual pain and discomfort anywhere along the spine, whether in the neck, upper back or lower back.  Usually, back pain is increased with increased levels of activity that bring the effected area into use.  The various types of back pain are more prevalent in people with chronic anxiety that with those who don't have the disorder.
• Fibromyalgia—impacts a wide range of body areas including, but not limited to, the hands, the shoulders and the neck and back.  The pain from fibromyalgia can fluctuate in intensity and creates a wide array of symptoms.  Its cause is unknown and is not easily diagnosed.  The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry did a study and found those with fibromyalgia were seven times as likely to have chronic anxiety as well.

 People with chronic anxiety disorder will want to consult with medical specialists in the anxiety field to help them find solutions to their issues.  However, in the meantime there are steps that can easily be taken to try to reduce some of the symptoms.

• Eat right—limit the use of caffeine, alcohol, dairy products, sugar, potatoes, tomatoes and tobacco which have been proven to increase the symptoms of chronic anxiety.  Whole fruit and vegetables are always a good choice.
• Sleep—a lack of sleep is often associated with anxiety disorders.  Therefore, measures to assure good, consistent sleep patterns will help to reduce anxiety problems.
• Exercise—even though exercise may increase pain when a program is started, the long term benefits are well documented.  But, before starting any course of exercise, consult a doctor or physician to assure your routine is appropriate for you.