Anxiety Related to Heart Concerns
Greetings everyone, I'm a 23-year-old woman, measuring 179 cm and weighing 90 kg. I smoke and take Lexapro at a dosage of 10 mg to manage my anxiety. Recently, I have been grappling with anxiety specifically associated with my heart. Strangely enough, I don't worry about much else apart from this issue. I often experience a slight sensation of breathlessness, which triggers a recurring cycle of anxious thoughts. This leads to additional symptoms such as tingling in my arms, a feeling of pressure on my chest, an increased heart rate, and I find myself panicking each time it happens. Despite undergoing numerous tests that have confirmed my heart is in good condition, I still struggle to fully believe it. More than anything, I aspire to move past this anxiety. I would greatly appreciate any advice or insights from others who might have faced similar challenges.
Answers (1)
2/5/2026, 11:10:34 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely understandable to feel anxious about your heart, especially when you're dealing with sensations like breathlessness and chest pressure. You’re not alone in experiencing these feelings, and many people have similar worries, even when tests show that their heart health is good. The key lies in managing your anxiety and recognizing its connection to physical sensations.
Understanding Your Symptoms
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Anxiety and Physical Sensations: Anxiety can lead to physical symptoms like breathlessness, rapid heartbeat, and tingling in arms. These sensations may create a cycle of panic, where your worry about your heart exacerbates your symptoms.
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Reassurance from Tests: Since you’ve had tests confirming your heart is in good condition, it's important to remind yourself of this. Often, repeating this reassurance to yourself can help ease some anxiety.
Next Steps
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Focus on Breathing Techniques:
- When you feel breathless, try to employ deep breathing techniques: Inhale slowly through your nose for a count of 4, hold for a count of 4, and exhale gently through your mouth for a count of 4. This can calm your body's response to anxiety.
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Monitor Triggers and Thoughts:
- Keep a journal to note when these feelings occur; identify any patterns or specific triggers. This can help you understand your anxiety better and may reveal insights into managing it.
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Continue Your Medication as Prescribed:
- Stay consistent with your Lexapro (escitalopram) as guided by your healthcare provider. It may take some time to see its full effect on your anxiety.
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Consider Lifestyle Changes:
- Reducing smoking can significantly impact both your heart and anxiety levels. Each reduction can help both your physical health and mental well-being.
- Regular physical activity can also help manage anxiety. Consider starting with walks or light exercise, focusing on what feels comfortable to you.
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Engage in Relaxation Practices:
- Explore mindfulness or meditation practices. Even a few minutes a day can help ground you and reduce anxiety levels over time.
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Talk About Your Feelings:
- Sharing your experiences with someone you trust can be very helpful. Sometimes, just verbalizing your thoughts can provide relief.
Moving Forward
While it may feel daunting, taking these steps can help you move toward managing your anxiety. It’s important to remember that change takes time, and being kind to yourself in this process is crucial. Keep celebrating small victories as you progress toward feeling more relaxed about your health. You're not alone on this journey, and seeking connections with others who experience similar feelings can also provide comfort and support.
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