Chest Pressure & Anxiety

I've struggled with worries about my heart for a while now. Chest pressure and heaviness, the occasional sharp pain, and general discomfort.

I've been to the ER multiple times, saw 2 cardiologists and have had several EKGS, blood work, chest X-rays, I've done a stress ekg and have had 2 echocardiograms. All of which came back normal.

Yes, the chest discomfort is there and worse when I'm anxious or having a panic attack, but it's there when I'm not also. I think it's because I keep my chest muscles so tense without realizing it.

So yes, the chest heaviness can be there without actively being anxious.

Have you seen your general doctor about your worries? They could probably put you more at ease and help get you on the right track in regards to dealing with the anxiety.

Check the resources section on the main forum here. It has some great tips on working through health anxiety.

Have you thought of medication or therapy? That might be beneficial to you.

I hope you find peace soon. I know how horrible it is to live with that fear.

FR,

It sounds as if you have had a recent medical workup, so it is probably safe to say that you are experiencing chronic and persistent physical symptoms of anxiety.

Tension, improper breathing...these can cause the thoracic muscles to become tight and fatigued.

Breathing exercises are pretty key in relieving this problem. You may be anxious breathing without even being aware of doing it...

...and as MW mentioned, we often don't feel anxious....but the subconscious is aware of the stress we may be suppressing!

See the Resources for some good instructions for breathing techniques...or let me know you are interested, and I'll post my favorite for you here.

S.C.

Here you go!

 
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

I hope you find this as helpful as I have.

S.C.