Differential Diagnosis for Anxiety

The following differential diagnosis for anxiety is organized into categories to help guide the diagnostic process.

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): This is the most likely diagnosis, as anxiety is a hallmark symptom of GAD. Patients with GAD often experience excessive and persistent worry about everyday things, even when there's no apparent reason to worry.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Panic Disorder: Characterized by recurrent panic attacks, which can manifest as intense anxiety.
  • Social Anxiety Disorder: Involves anxiety related to social situations, fear of judgment, or embarrassment.
  • Phobic Disorders: Specific phobias can cause significant anxiety when the individual is exposed to the feared object or situation.
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Can present with anxiety symptoms, especially in response to triggers that remind the individual of a traumatic event.
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Often involves anxiety related to obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Thyroid Disorders (Hyperthyroidism): Can cause anxiety, palpitations, and other symptoms that mimic anxiety disorders.
  • Pheochromocytoma: A rare tumor of the adrenal gland that can cause episodic anxiety, palpitations, and hypertension.
  • Cardiac Conditions (e.g., Arrhythmias, Coronary Artery Disease): Can present with anxiety-like symptoms, such as chest pain and palpitations.
  • Substance Withdrawal or Intoxication: Certain substances can cause or exacerbate anxiety symptoms.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Anxiety Disorder Due to Another Medical Condition: Certain medical conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), can cause anxiety symptoms.
  • Neurodegenerative Disorders (e.g., Frontotemporal Dementia): Can present with anxiety symptoms, especially in the early stages.
  • Mitral Valve Prolapse: A condition that can cause anxiety-like symptoms, such as palpitations and chest pain.
  • Wilson's Disease: A rare genetic disorder that can cause psychiatric symptoms, including anxiety.