Many patients are told their symptoms are “just anxiety.” While anxiety can cause profound physical symptoms, prematurely stopping investigation can miss serious illness — and worsen mental health.

The relationship between anxiety and physical disease is bidirectional. Illness can cause anxiety, and anxiety can amplify physical sensations.

Symptoms commonly attributed to anxiety

• Chest tightness
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Palpitations
• Gastrointestinal distress

When anxiety should not be the final answer

• First-time symptoms after age 40
• Progressive or worsening features
• Night-time or exertional symptoms
• Objective abnormalities on examination

The danger of false reassurance

Dismissing symptoms as anxiety without adequate assessment increases mistrust, delays diagnosis, and deepens distress.

Bottom line: Anxiety and illness often coexist. Good care rules out danger before reassurance.