It’s common to feel anxious every once in a while. Sometimes its as if you feel like you are sinking in fear or panic and there is no way out. You can’t breathe and panic descends. Speaking in front of a huge crowd, thinking about financial problems and preparing for an exam are just a few instances in which it’s natural to get nervous. But some people are plagued by anxiety more than usual, so much so that it takes control over their lives. Drawing the line between everyday anxiety and when to see a specialist can be difficult. The following are some telltale signs that you may be suffering from a disorder and that it is time to consult your healthcare provider.

1. Worrying excessively

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is considered by health experts to be the broadest type of anxiety. One of the primary characteristics exhibited by people with this disorder is worrying too much, even about unimportant things and life events. The anxious thoughts may be so persistent that they linger in your mind most days of the week. This may be accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue. Experts say that when emotions begin to cause dysfunction, it can be characterized as a disorder which must be addressed immediately.

2. Difficulty falling and staying asleep

Sleeping difficulties can be associated with different health issues. It’s also common to toss and turn in your bed the night before a huge game or an important test. But if you find yourself chronically deprived of sleep, it might be a sign that you’re suffering from anxiety. You may lie awake thinking about certain problems or nothing in particular. It is estimated that 50% of people with GAD exhibit problems falling and staying asleep.

3. Muscle tension

Dealing with tense muscles all the time is one common physical symptom of anxiety. This may be in the form of jaw clenching or flexing muscles. You may be battling against muscle tension for a long time that it might become unnoticeable after a while. One solution to this is regular exercise. However, it’s essential to maintain an exercise schedule. Otherwise, it’s possible to experience flare ups and suffer from muscle tension again.

4. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Healthcare professionals say that the gut can be extremely sensitive to psychological stress. IBS is sometimes described as experiencing anxiety in the digestive tract. You might suffer from bloating, cramping, constipation and diarrhea. The pain and discomfort caused by IBS may also make you feel more anxious, which is why it’s recommended to find relief immediately.

5. Self-consciousness

Contrary to popular belief, social anxiety doesn’t necessarily involve speaking or performing in a big crowd. In fact, this type of anxiety is often caused by ordinary situations such as talking with another person or eating with a new group of people. If you’re suffering from social anxiety, you might feel like everyone’s watching your every move. It’s common to blush, sweat and tremble. This can severely affect your social life and your ability to maintain relationships.

These are just of the most common signs of anxiety disorder you should watch out for. If you exhibit any of these symptoms, be sure to visit your doctor immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment.