Is Shortness of Breath a Symptom of Anxiety?
October 4, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, shortness of breath is a common symptom of anxiety and anxiety-related disorders. When experiencing anxiety, the body’s “fight or flight” response is triggered, releasing stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones can lead to various physical sensations, including shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. Here’s how anxiety can cause shortness of breath:
- Hyperventilation: Anxiety can cause rapid, shallow breathing, leading to hyperventilation. This can disturb the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the body, resulting in a feeling of breathlessness.
- Muscle Tension: Anxiety often causes muscle tension, including in the chest and diaphragm. Tightness in these muscles can make it difficult to take deep breaths, giving the sensation of shortness of breath.
- Increased Heart Rate: Anxiety can cause an elevated heart rate, which can make you feel like you’re out of breath or make it seem like your heart is working harder than it actually is.
- Sensations of Suffocation or Choking: Anxiety can cause a feeling of suffocation or choking, even if there’s no physical obstruction in the airway. This perception can trigger a fear response and worsen breathlessness.
- Hypersensitivity to Sensations: People with anxiety may become hyper-aware of their bodily sensations, including their breathing, and misinterpret normal breathing patterns as difficulty breathing.
It’s important to note that while anxiety can cause shortness of breath, if you experience sudden, severe, or persistent shortness of breath or have a history of heart or lung conditions, it’s crucial to seek medical attention to rule out any other underlying medical issues.
If you’re dealing with anxiety-related shortness of breath, relaxation techniques, deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, and seeking support from a mental health professional can be helpful in managing anxiety and its symptoms.