Hi F.A.M. and welcome.
This is a common issue with anxiety sufferers. The physiological effects of anxiety often make it seem as if we are not able to draw a full breath, or that we aren't getting sufficient oxygen...and therefore, we can get focused on our breathing.
The thing is...is that breathing is an automatic response, so both sensations (barring a medical condition that would cause this) are not actually true.
Our chests can become tight and constricted, but we are still going to be able to breath successfully. However, the feeling can remain and cause us much concern!
Have you tried any self help coping skills such as breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation or meditation? You can find all of these in our Resources here. (main page, 1st post)
I will also share my favorite breathing exercise with you. This one helped me when nothing else seemed to work for me. Give it a try and see if you see improvement.
Keep posting here with us as well. We are here to understand, care and give support to each other.
Looking forward to getting to know you better.
Scaredy Cat
The Divided Breath:
Imagine your lungs as having 3 parts. The bottom third, the middle, and top third. On the inhale fill the bottom third first, then the middle and finally the third. Make sure that this is one continuous breath, but divided, with a slight pause in between each third. Hold the breath in for 3-5 seconds if possible. Exhale in reverse. First blow out the top third, then the middle, and finally the bottom third of your lungs until all air is expelled. (remember the pauses) Repeat several rounds for a toatal of about 10 minutes. Practicing this every day will not only give you control and structure to your breathing, it will strengthen and loosen the thoractic muscles, allowing better, more productive breathing, and relieving the chest tightness!