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chest pains due to anxiety / panic disorder

14 years ago 0 +0 / -0 29

Thanks Ariel! I've had 2 overnight stays in hospitals and several cardiology appointments and tests... all were fine. It's amazing to me that how much trouble I have believing in all the recommendations and tests... however, slowly it's getting better. I need to remember how many tricks the mind can play on you when you're in a sensitized state.

Thanks for the comment! It does make me feel better!

14 years ago 0 +0 / -0 29

Hi Drock,

I think many people experience chest pain due to anxiety. I had chest pain when I was stressed for years before actually having a panic attack. It started when I was 15 and I had tons of tests done over 8 years by a cardiologist, all coming back normal. It wasn't until my first panic attack, that the MD thought it was related to anxiety. After having all the tests come back normal and knowing it was instead related to the anxiety, I am more relaxed when I feel it. I can just acknowledge that I'm stressed and this is my body's response, so that it doesn't escalate into something worse. I think JGD is right in how to approach it and hopefully you will get some peace of mind when the results come back. Hope that helps.

Ariel

14 years ago 0 +0 / -0 29

Drock,

I'm an RN who worked on a cardiac floor @ 10 years ago. Here's my advice... go to your primary doctor and tell him you have concerns about your heart and would like to get checked. Also, tell him that you're having panic attacks because of it and would like a 'thorough' checkup. Ask if you can get an EKG and Cardiac Stress Test. If both of those test are ok, your pains are either muscle/bone related and/or anxiety.

As I've learned the hard way... you can have 'real' pain and have it caused by anxiety.

I've read lots of books and been talking w/ a therapist for 6 months... honestly, this program essentially ties all the major pieces together.

It's not easy but you will progress... take care!

14 years ago 0 +0 / -0 192

hey Davit - glad to hear it. Hope you are having a great day

The Christmas season is upon us - which I love, but already I am busy with get-togethers and parties. Every week and wknd. I have something to do, so I know I will have to do my relaxation exercises faithfully, eat healthy, get to bed early enough (except for party evenings I guess) and count my blessings. I have a party tonight (command performance type) and one tomorrow (lots of fun).

14 years ago 0 +0 / -0 6252

sunny

I would have said it just like that if you hadn't beat me to it.

Davit

14 years ago 0 +0 / -0 192

I think you should be as open as you can with your doctor so you can work together on any issues you may have. They aren't mind readers and I know my doctor appreciates and encourages my questions, involvement in my care. So, go for it. He/she may explain the tests and why they are or aren't necessary at this time. You could let the doc. know it would give you peace of mind. At first I felt a little nervous and didn't want to appear foolish about asking what might seem "silly" questions, but that goes away as you begin to work together and trust level grows. As for the indigestion problem. That often happens when we are tense all the time, too much acid reflux. I think that's a real common problem for anxious people. When I first had panic attacks, I quit coffee for awhile and drank decaff for about 2 years and drank lots of herbal teas - you grow to like them - ate more small meals a day rather than large ones at a sitting. It takes a little time to get used to, but it does feel better so it's worth the effort. Keep up the good work, and keep posting. Have a great day

14 years ago 0 +0 / -0 11226

Drock,

That can depend on the person you are asking. Personally, I think it is great to be active in asking for what you need from health care professionals. There is nothing more important then your health.

Members, what are your thoughts? Would you ask a doctor for a specific test?

Drock. have you thought about how you would ask your doctor?

Ashley, Health Educator

Here to help :)

14 years ago 0 +0 / -0 5

I have had a stress test done (the tread mill and monitor test) and a 2D dopplr Echo Cardiogram done about 1.5 months ago. as well as all blood work and usual tests.

everything showed fine, except a slightly dilated left atrium... not sure if i had always had this, or it is a result of being stressed.

i still feel i would like my doctor to put me on a 24 or 48 hour monitor and perhaps a endoscope (to see if i have an indigestion issue)

is it alright to just ask your family physician for these tests?

14 years ago 0 +0 / -0 192

Hi drock: welcome to the forums. Just to let you know, I too used to get chest pains and shortness of breath, when anxious and panicing. I would agree with Ashley, talk to your doctor. Once you are reassured that your heart is o.k. and that the chest pains, etc. are from the anxiety, you can focus on getting better without thinking you are having a heart attack or that there is something seriously medically wrong with you. It is frightening to think you are having a heart attack and that causes the adrenalin to keep pumping - and the anxiety cycle continues. So if you can, rule that out first. It will give you peace of mind. Hope you keep posting, we care

14 years ago 0 +0 / -0 11226

Hi drock,

Chest pain and shortness of breath are common anxiety symptoms but the only way to rule out medical problems is by talking to a doctor. He/she will be able to let you know if there is anything to be concerned about. You said that medical staff at the hospital said that everything seems fine. If you still have concerns possibly ask the advice from a second medical oppinion. Explain your symptoms carefully and record when you feel this way.

Keep us posted.

Ashley, Health Educator

Here to help :)

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chest pains due to anxiety / panic disorder