Feeling nervous and shaking

[Lily_fox]

I feel nervous all the time and thinking that im going to die. I feel chest pain and also i cant concentrate everyday because of this. And also palpitations.

[EleanorRose]

Hi Lily_fox,

I'm sorry you're experiencing that, it sounds horrible

I'm no doctor but it does sound very much like a physical response to anxiety and perhaps panic attacks? I get palpitations quite alot too and have feared that I am dying many, many times - it is scary. Do you think you are going to die because of the chest pain/palpitations or because of something else?

I find it helpful to just focus on my breathing when I am really panicked. There are lots of different apps nowadays and all sorts of techniques and the like but I keep it simple and don't overthink it, just deep breaths in through my nose and out through my mouth until I feel calm enough to do something else/for the palpitations to stop.

[Jeff1943]

Have you seen your doctor and maybe had a test or two to prove to you that these symptoms are anxiety and not organic? I'm sure you have so I can tell you that all the symptoms you mention are well known and perfectly normal to someone experiencing anxiety disorder.

Your chest pains (in the absence of cardiac problems) are caused by muscular tension. Palpitations are the hearts normal reaction to anxiety.

Anxiety multiplies our fears ten fold so when these physical symptoms began you didn't just wonder if it was some fatal illness, your sensitised nerves immediately jumped to the worse case scenario. No of course you're not going to die.

Just accept these annoying thoughts and symptoms, they are harmless, don't obsess about them and they will disperse.

[formidible]

Are you taking any meds for this? From what you've described it seems you're in a constant state of anxiety with panic attacks. I think you should consult a doctor as soon as possible. Meantime you can also try deep breathing exercises and mindfulness (the headspace app is very good) as well as distraction. I hope you feel better soon.

[Bheara]

Lily:

Heart palpitations, chest tightness and lack of concentration are all symptoms of anxiety. However, that being said, your first step should be a work up from your doctor to ensure that there are no underlying conditions (those symptoms are also present in people with thyroid problems). Get a clean bill of health and then if you are still experiencing the same symptoms, you will know that the work begins to break free from the anxiety prison.

[Barbie72]

Sounds like panic attacks. Tell your therapist.

[detour13]

Yes I am actually going thru the exact same thing right now.. The funny thing is I was not anxious or stressed today.. But a couple hours ago I feel this pain in my chest around my heart and think I am dying.. I hate this feeling .. I hate suffering. People don't know how lucky they are to not have anxiety and panic attacks like most of us on this site!

I hope your feeling much better Lily_fox