Experiencing Chest Discomfort and Anxiety Attacks
Greetings, I’m a 16-year-old male, and just two days prior, I encountered my very first anxiety attack while riding a bus. In that instant, nothing appeared to trigger it, and I didn’t experience any fear until the overwhelming sensation struck me, making me feel as if I was on the verge of death. The attack left me feeling dizzy, fostering an intense worry that I might faint and die right then and there. Following that episode, my heart raced throughout the day, and I began experiencing intermittent chest pains that seemed to originate from my heart. Initially, these were sharp twinges accompanying each heartbeat (though they were not continuous), but then yesterday, I suffered another unexpected panic attack while at work. This episode also caught me off guard and diminished my appetite, while the chest discomfort transitioned from sharp pains to a sensation of tightness or squeezing. I shared my concerns with my parents, but my mother dismissed my feelings, labeling me as a hypochondriac. She suggested I wait until Monday to assess my condition and then make an appointment with the general practitioner. However, I’m aware that the NHS in my area has long waiting times, potentially taking months before I could see someone. Since these two anxiety attacks, I’ve felt mentally exhausted. Each wave of pain brings me to the brink of tears, not due to unbearable agony, but rather from the fear that something could be seriously wrong with my health. As the day progresses, I sense my energy waning, largely due to my diminished appetite, stemming from the discomfort and accompanying nausea. Moreover, I’ve experienced periods of difficulty breathing, which arise unexpectedly, leaving me gasping for breath and struggling to take deep inhalations. What are my next steps?
Answers (1)
12/13/2025, 3:10:44 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm really sorry to hear that you've been experiencing these distressing symptoms. It's understandable to feel overwhelmed and worried, especially when you're having anxiety attacks and chest discomfort. Let's take a closer look at your situation and outline some steps you can take to manage your feelings and symptoms.
Main Points:
- Anxiety and Panic Attacks: The experiences you're describing sound consistent with anxiety and panic attacks. They can cause physical symptoms, including chest discomfort and difficulty breathing, which can be very frightening.
- Physical Symptoms Can Be Real: It's important to recognize that anxiety can indeed manifest as physical sensations, and while it’s a psychological issue at its core, the distress it causes is real and should be taken seriously.
Explanation:
Your body can react intensely to stress and anxiety, leading to symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, chest tightness, dizziness, and even nausea. These sensations are common during panic attacks, which can happen without a clear trigger. It’s equally important to listen to your body and not dismiss your feelings as mere anxiety, especially when you’re experiencing physical symptoms.
Next Steps:
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Calm Yourself in the Moment:
- When you feel an anxiety attack coming on, try grounding techniques such as deep breathing. Inhale slowly through your nose for a count of four, hold for four, and then exhale through your mouth for a count of six. Repeat this several times.
- Focus on your surroundings and try to identify five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. This can help bring you back to the present moment.
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their intensity, and what you were doing at the time. This may help you identify patterns that could help with anxiety management.
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Address Lifestyle Factors:
- Try to maintain a balanced diet even if your appetite is low. Small, nutritious meals can help maintain your energy levels. Staying hydrated is also crucial.
- Incorporate regular light physical activity if you feel up to it, as exercise can be beneficial for mental health.
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Seek Support:
- Talk to someone you trust, like a friend, family member, or school counselor, about what you’re experiencing. Expressing your feelings can provide relief and support.
- If you continue to feel overwhelmed, look for local mental health resources or helplines. Many have options for young people that can help you navigate these feelings.
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Prepare for Your Doctors Appointment:
- If you can't see a doctor right away, jot down your symptoms and concerns to discuss when you do get an appointment. This can help you advocate for yourself regarding your needs.
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Stay Patient with Yourself:
- Remember that it’s okay to feel what you're feeling. Healing takes time, and with the right support and methods, many people learn to manage their anxiety effectively.
It's important to focus on your mental health just as much as your physical health. You're not alone in this experience, and there are ways to feel better. If things feel too overwhelming or if you experience severe symptoms, it’s essential to seek immediate help. I'm here for any further questions or support you may need.
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