Social anxiety is another of the many classes of anxiety disorders. Just like the other forms of this condition, the symptoms are usually very real to the person suffering from them. In fact, they can be so serious that utter avoidance of specific situations that may create an attack of anxiety is recommended. Understanding the symptoms and what to look for can help a person who might have social anxiety, to realize the need to ask assistance to control, and even overcome, the condition.

Since several of the symptoms of social anxiety also duplicate life threatening and serious physical disorders, it is usually advised that a doctor should be the one to diagnose the precise cause of the problem. Even though the symptoms are clearly that of social anxiety, such as an extreme fear of speaking in public or going to job interviews, a physical evaluation is almost always needed.

Some of the more common symptoms of social anxiety include:

- Dizziness. This symptom can present itself in the midst of an anxiety producing social encounter and even when one is expecting the event. Because it can also be a manifestation of a host of medical conditions, getting it diagnosed is prudent.

- Heart palpitations. People with social anxiety almost always report rapid heart beats, chest pain and general discomfort. These conditions can also be signs of a heart attack.

- Nausea, stomach complaints. These symptoms can frequently indicate a bout of social anxiety, as well as a variety of other physical disorders.

- Sweating, blushing and trembling. These are obvious external physical manifestations of a number of ailments, including social anxiety. If they appear in the midst of a fearful social situation, they are probably caused by social anxiety. A medical check-up is still strongly advised.

- Other symptoms. Those with social anxiety also complain of such things as a failure to concentrate, sleep or enjoy life. A few people discover that they are plagued by splitting headaches, general malaise and even such symptoms as, an itching throat, dry mouth and shivers.

Social anxiety can manifest itself as a grave fear of a specific kind of social event. It can also impact on all aspects of life outside of one's comfort zone. In serious cases, people might try to utterly alienate themselves from most situations that are known to trigger extreme feelings of fear.

Obtaining a complete medical and psychological evaluation to eliminate other potential triggers can put one with social anxiety on the right road to recovery. If the condition is correctly diagnosed and managed, there is a very good chance that patients can master the condition. In many instances, a combination of medications and therapy will be prescribed to help sufferers to get control over their lives and social issues. Being a little wary in public places is quite natural. When fears become overwhelming, there is possibly a more serious, underlying problem.