Which of the following conditions could exhibit similar symptoms to anxiety withdrawal?

Alcohol withdrawal can indeed exhibit symptoms that closely resemble anxiety withdrawal. When a person who has developed a physical dependence on alcohol suddenly decreases or stops their intake, they may experience a range of symptoms, including anxiety, restlessness, irritability, tremors, and in severe cases, seizures or delirium tremens. These symptoms can mimic those of anxiety withdrawal, as both conditions involve heightened levels of nervous system excitability and discomfort.

Understanding the overlap in symptoms is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment. For example, patients experiencing alcohol withdrawal may describe their condition in a way that could be mistaken for anxiety-related issues. The autonomic symptoms such as tachycardia, sweating, and elevated blood pressure can further complicate the clinical picture and mimic anxiety disorders.

In contrast, the other conditions listed typically produce different symptom profiles. Opioid overdose is characterized by respiratory depression and altered mental status rather than anxiety-like symptoms. Stimulant intoxication often leads to heightened energy, euphoria, and in cases of overdose, paranoia and agitation. Hallucinogens can produce perceptual distortions and altered reality that are distinct from anxiety-related symptoms. Therefore, recognizing the specific symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal is critical for differentiating it from other conditions like anxiety withdrawal.