How do I tell if my physiological symptoms are simply heightened anxiety, or are the symptoms of an actual underlying medical issue that should be brought to the attention of a healthcare provider?

I had a discussion with a Psychologist regarding this question awhile ago. She said that when there is a medical issue underlying, you don't feel anxious? However, personally, if I were to get a severe symptom, I would def get in touch with the ambulance just to be on the safe side!

Even if it did turn out to be "heightened anxiety," chances are you should seek a professional's opinion (i.e. an actual doctor) if whatever you are experiencing disables you from carrying out your normal, everyday tasks.

This was the hardest thing for me in my life to overcome. Eventually you will realize it's anxiety. it's difficult, but it really is anxiety.

The only sure way to tell is to go to a health care provider. If you have safe access it is always a good idea to go to your health care provider instead of assuming your symptoms are only heightened anxiety.

I'm sorry to hear you're feeling more anxious than usual. Your healthcare provider should be able to access the severity of your anxiety and help you determine if your current coping strategies are sufficient.

You must first evaluate your surroundings. You need to figure out if something around you has changed and triggered those emotions. If not, it could be an underlying problem. It would be best then to check with your healthcare provider

Increased heart rate, persistent headache, chest pain, etc. can all be signs of heightened anxiety, but if these symptoms persist for a long period of time and do not seem to improve after the situation inducing anxiety has passed or with any techniques to help reduce anxiety, it would be wise to visit a doctor as soon as possible. Changes in sleep, eating habits (i.e. lack of appetite), and other bodily pains should also be brought to a doctor's attention if as persistently present as previously described.

They could be related! Check with a doctor and/or naturopath to see if you have a medical condition and to receive advice on how to stabilise your feelings of anxiety. Talk to a therapist or an insightful friend about what might be going on in your life to cause you stress and what changes you might make to alleviate stressful situations. Try eating well, practicing mindfulness, and making sure you have time in your schedule to relax!

This is something I believe should only be answered by a medical professional, the internet can only provide so many answers. For all of us facing these challenges, while we may face many of the same symptoms with anxiety, each case is just as unique as we are as individuals. To be absolutely sure for yourself, seek care and advice from a medical professional. Also, after being fully checked by a doctor it can often ease our anxieties to be certain of our health instead of only the mild assurances you can find online.

If the symptoms are not life-threatening, see what happens the next day, does it get better or worse? IF in doubt, always seek for professional help