What is anxiety?
Many of us know what shortness of breath feels like: your chest tightens, you feel like no matter how big of a breath you take, you’re not getting in enough air. You may try and breathe more quickly, which can sometimes make you feel worse.
Shortness of breath can be a concerning feeling, especially if you aren’t sure of the cause. While shortness of breath can be a symptom of a physical health condition, it can also be a symptom of anxiety. So how can you tell the difference and when should you start to worry?
Our Mental Health Providers are here to help. Below, we explain some signs that your shortness of breath is likely to be caused by anxiety versus a physical health condition, and what you can do about it.
What is anxiety?
To understand why and how anxiety causes shortness of breath, it’s important to first understand what anxiety is.
Anxiety is defined as a feeling of physical, mental, or emotional stress. When you’re anxious or stressed, you may feel symptoms such as:
- Increased heart rate and feelings of heart palpitations
- Difficulty breathing
- Tense muscles
- Worry
- Digestive issues
- Repetitive, uncontrollable worries
When should I seek medical attention?
If you experience shortness of breath that is sudden, affects your ability to function, and/or is accompanied by any of the following symptoms, you may be experiencing a medical emergency and should seek emergency medical care from a healthcare professional:
- Chest pain or chest tightness
- Lightheadedness/fainting
- Nausea
- Blue tinge to your lips or nails
- Shortness of breath at nighttime
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Vomiting
- Confusion
- Fever
- Swelling in your feet and ankles
Common Causes
Anxiety is not always related to an underlying condition. It may be caused by:
- Stress that can result from work, school, personal relationship
- Emotional trauma
- Financial concerns
- Stress caused by a chronic or serious medical condition
- A major event or performance
- Side effect of certain medications
- Alcohol consumption, drugs such as cocaine
- Lack of oxygen