Short of Breath

Hi Neurotic Me again. Only took pulse twice today really proud of myself.

Now suffering from shortness of breath, is this anxiety do you think. Anyone else as bad as me.

4 Comments

Me Too

by Vicki - 2008-02-01 04:02:12

Just like Michelle, I have had the same problem. My doctor also said it was anxiety and I agree with him. It's gotten better. I find that if I am busy it doesn't happen, it's only when I am sitting idle and start thinking and then this feeling that I can't get enough air comes on. I am taking an anti-anxiety medication also and it really helps.

When I got my PM (July 15, 2007) I was also checking my pulse constantly. I've gotten over that thank goodness. You will too.

Your body and emotions are going through a big adjustment right now. It will get better.

Vicki

Shortness of Breath

by hooimom - 2008-02-01 04:02:58

I have been dealing with shortness of breath for about 6 months. I got my PM in July 2006. I had a 14 day monitor that showed nothing of concern so they decided it was anxiety. I went to see my Primary Care Physician and she suggested that I try a month of anxiety medication to see if it helped. I am on day 10 now and it has helped quite a bit. I kept saying I didn't think I was all that anxious, but now I realize how much pressure and stress I am under and I just don't handle it well. Anxiety can really, really make you sick! It certainly could be anxiety. So, yes, there are some of us that are as "bad" as you!

Michelle

I agree

by dward - 2008-02-01 05:02:13

I had very similar symptoms as noted above. Men, women, older, younger, it seems to be fairly common.
Always good to keep your Doc in the loop though - to be sure it's nothing serious AND to try and ease your mind.

You're Not Alone!

by Carol - 2008-02-01 08:02:35

I was a most nervous pacer!! Especially at first.....that was 4 months ago! Don't feel bad, I catch myself wanting to take my pulse every time I feel a little skip or irregularity...still! Only twice for you today.....Bravo!!! I agree with all other posts, mention this shortness of breath to your doctor, if he/she really feels it is not physical in origin, then I know anxiety can cause this as I too have experienced it. Anxiety plays havoc with your heart due to adrenaline....try taking slow, diaphragmatic breaths breathing in through your nose and then slowly exhale through pursed lips, this should help calm you if anxiety related. It does me. Give yourself time and understanding it takes time to adjust physically and emotionally for some of us. Good luck, sending calm, relaxing thoughts your way. A fellow nervous pacer but getting better. Carol

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