Your palms begin to sweat and your stomach begins to flutter but you're fine. You're experiencing simple cases of nervousness and your body is responding in ways that are manageable. But, anxiety can explode into a serious problem.

Anxiety disorders, in addition to generalized anxiety, include phobias, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. For millions of sufferers anxiety disorders are disruptive, debilitating and often the reason for loss of job and serious problems in family relationships. So what can be done to control anxiety disorders?

Many anxiety disorders can be controlled with therapy, support groups and other non-medication treatments. But when the problem is severe or when coupled with certain diagnoses, medicine may be required. Prescription medications can control the unrelenting and uncontrollable tension and fear that rule the lives of anxiety disorder patients.

Anti-anxiety medication can relieve the fear. It can help stop physical symptoms such as pounding heart and shortness of breath, and give patients a greater sense of control. Benzodiazepines are often prescribed by psychiatrists and physicians. They're a group of tranquilizers that can reduce debilitating symptoms and enable a person to concentrate on coping with his or her illness.

And now when patients are equipped with a greater sense of control, they can learn how to reduce the stress that triggers anxiety. And they can develop new behaviors that will lessen the effects of their anxiety disorder. All thanks to the right anti-anxiety medication.

Benzodiazepines are among the most commonly prescribed depressant medications in the United States today. More than 15 different types of benzodiazepine medications exist to treat a wide array of both psychological and physical disorders. Some of the most commonly used types are Valium, Ativan, and Librium. Each are normally ingested in a pill or capsule form but can be administered intravenously if needed.

Anti-anxiety medications are prescribed for relaxation, calmness, and relief from anxiety and tension. In some cases side effects will occur. These side effects vary widely depending on the type of medication, the dose, and the person. Some of the short-term side effects to be aware of are drowsiness, impaired thinking, altered vision, depression, stuttering, confusion, nausea, dry mouth, and loss of appetite.

Long-term side effects can also occur in patients who are taking high doses of benzodiazepines. These effects can consist of slurred speech, loss of concentration, lack of coordination, and disorientation. Patients experiencing any long-term side effects should speak with their physician immediately.

Symptoms of anxiety can present themselves on a daily basis. So be aware of when you begin to worry and know what information to report to your physician so he/she can best help you. Because before being prescribed an anti-anxiety medication there are questions that need answering.

Are these symptoms caused by a medical problem? If not, then consider what your life circumstances are. Are you under a lot of stress at work or at home? Do you feel as if you're racing to beat the clock? Has worry become your number one emotion? Ask these questions and know the answers before visiting your doctor. The better informed he is the easier it will be for him to prescribe an anti-anxiety medication.