The main feature of GAD is persistent, excessive, and unrealistic worry about everyday things. These feelings occur on most days for at least six months. People with GAD can’t relax and worry constantly and so may have difficulty concentrating. They may also have trouble falling asleep or sleeping through the night. Some of the other physical symptoms that may accompany anxiety include:

• fatigue
• headaches
• muscle tension
• muscle aches
• difficulty swallowing
• trembling or twitching
• sweating
• nausea
• lightheadedness
• having to go to the bathroom frequently
• feeling out of breath
• hot flashes
• restlessness
• irritability
• gastrointestinal discomfort or diarrhea

The anxiety that occurs with GAD can range from mild to severe. Mild anxiety may allow sufferers to maintain a job and function normally in social situations, while severe anxiety can make work and social interaction unbearable and make even simple daily activities very difficult.