Abstract
This chapter introduces Mr. A, a 58yearold man with multiple medical conditions, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and coronary artery disease, who is admitted to the hospital due to worsening respiratory symptoms. Mr. A is experiencing significant distress and anxiety related to his illness. This case illustrates the common occurrence of anxiety in medically ill patients, which can be triggered by uncertainty and the fear of the unknown. This chapter emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between anxiety as a reaction to illness and preexisting anxiety disorders. It discusses how anxiety symptoms can manifest both emotionally and physically, often overlapping with the symptoms of the underlying medical condition. This chapter highlights the need for a comprehensive assessment, including medical and psychiatric history, physical examination, and collaboration with the medical team to determine the cause of anxiety. It also notes that certain medications used to treat medical conditions can exacerbate anxiety symptoms.