Symptoms of social anxiety

The symptoms of social anxiety are similar to those of any type of anxiety, and include:

• Racing or pounding heart beat
• Sweating, especially in the hands, feet and armpits
• Feeling lightheaded, dizzy or 'spaced out'
• Nausea or an inability to eat
• Unexplained fear
• Blushing
• Muscle tension that may lead to awkward movements
• Trembling, especially the hands or kneecaps

Social anxiety and hyperventilation

It can be argued that social anxiety or phobia is an abnormal thought process, perhaps due to some past trauma, but the hyperventilation connected to any type of anxiety may contribute to the symptoms.

Read more: Social anxiety and hyperventilation