These include hypothyroidism, systemic lupus erythematosus and anemia. In addition, respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and pneumonia may cause acute anxiety symptoms. Unless directly questioned by the physician, women tend to avoid disclosing their medications. The list of drugs known to precipitate anxiety is long, and it is imperative to ask the patient what medications she takes. The most common anxiety disorders affecting women are summarized in the Table .
Many primary clinicians find it useful to try to pinpoint a patient's specific anxiety disorder.
This latter approach can sometimes help the patient engage more actively in therapy. The Risk of Suicide There is a high incidence of suicide attempts among anxious patients, particularly those with panic disorder. While family practitioners are attuned to the risk of suicide in patients with depression, bipolar disorder and eating disorders, the risk in patients with anxiety disorders is frequently underestimated. Because anxiety is often experienced as unbearable and unrelenting, the patient may view death as her only option. To avert suicide, the primary care physician should partner with a mental health professional who has expertise in providing a safe environment to negotiate an acute crisis.