Just try to relax. Breathing is an involuntary action. You don’t have to think about it to do it. Try doing something else. Read a book or something. You are absolutely right that focusing on it will make it worse. Have you been treated for your shortness of breath and chest heaviness? You said it has been going on the last couple days? Have you had any relief? If not you may want to just speak to your doctor about it. At least get your O2 saturation taken. I hate advising people to ignore on here without more info. I feel likes it is at least good to get a check up so you can recognize it for what it is. It will also give you peace of mind which in turn will help your breathing. With anxiety it is very common to have chest pain and shortness of breath. Typically though it won’t affect your test results. The symptoms are very real just not dangerous. I get lightheaded and short of breath all the time. Although I’ve never as much as I’ve felt like it actually passed out. You know you’re body, history and how you feel better than everyone. When mine first started I ended up hospitalized twice for cardiac workup and even inpatient in a health and wellness center for severe anxiety and panic attacks. Now anxiety is my “normal.” I just live my life through it and don’t give it power. I’ve also learned to recognize it for what it is. The beast anxiety is clever in that it is so debilitating and on top of it the symptoms often mimic severe health issues like heart disease etc. If you are still concerned it’s always better to be safe than sorry. If you have any questions don’t be afraid to ask. A lot of us along with having first hand experience have also been nurses, on rescue squad etc. We’re here for you.
Thank you so much for the helpful advice I really do appreciate it.
When I distract myself I don’t seem to notice the shortness of breath its once I’m trying to relax I notice it so might just be a symptom of anxiety i will definitely book a drs appointment after Christmas and get everything checked over just to be safe.
Ohhh I’m glad you have managed to accept your anxiety. I hope I do one day!x
I agree with Hopeful-Tinkerbell. You should go to your doctor to rule out any serious condition. Then when you get the clean bill of health you can concentrate on relieving your anxiety with breathing exercises. YouTube has many different ones that help, you can also discuss different methods with your doctor. Hope you feel better.
Thank you so much for the reply. I will definitely book a drs appointment. Since having anxiety I notice stuff with my body more. Like how fast my heart races, or a tingle in my head/face.
I think I cause the symptoms on my self sometimes for keep thinking ‘oh do I feel ok, or is my heart racing fast’
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