The physical symptoms of anxiety are often the most disturbing feature of anxiety. Common physical symptoms of anxiety include increased heart rate, changes in breathing, chest pain or pressure, dizziness or light-headedness, sweating, chills, stomach problems, trembling, shaking, tingling or numbness, weakness, faintness, tense muscles, general feelings of jumpiness, restlessness, feeling keyed-up or dry mouth. Anxiety is part of a larger system in the body designed to respond to threats and danger. Anxiety may be triggered any time you think you are in danger even though you may not actually be in danger. Symptoms can change over time and across situations. People differ in how they tolerate anxiety. Many people come to fear the physical sensations of anxiety and respond quickly to avoid it at all costs.