Generalized anxiety disorder pathophysiology

Describe pathophysiologic findings in generalized anxiety, panic, and social anxiety disorder patients. 

Reprinted, with permission, from Kirkwood CK, Melton ST. Anxiety disorders I. Generalized anxiety, panic, and social anxiety disorders. In DiPiro JT, Talbert RL, Yee GC, et al, (eds.) Pharmacotherapy A Pathophysiologic Approach. 6th ed. New York McGraw Hill 2005 1294. 

Pathophysiologically, constipation generally results from disordered colonic transit or anorectal function as a result of a primary motility disturbance, certain drugs, or in association with a large number of systemic diseases that affect the gastrointestinal tract. Constipation from any cause may be exacerbated by chronic illnesses that lead to physical or mental impairment and result in inactivity or physical immobility. Additional contributing factors may include a lack of fiber in the diet, generalized muscle weakness, and possibly stress and anxiety. 

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