Can Anxiety Cause Chest Pain?
Chest pain is a common ailment. It is the second most frequent reason for emergency room visits in adults. However, not all chest pain is related to heart problems.
Anxiety may be a contributing factor. Anxiety causes some “excitatory” chemicals to be produced in the body. This includes the adrenaline and cortisol. They help the body prepare for flight or fight. Hence, a surge in blood pressure and heart rate. Moreover, they cause shortness of breath and digestive issues.
Anxiety-related chest pain may be hard to pinpoint. Some of the symptoms include tightness in the chest, difficulty breathing, and chest pain that mimics a heart attack.
The good news is that there are ways to reduce your anxiety. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is one such approach. This type of therapy involves teaching you new ways to cope with your anxiety. You may also be exposed to a triggering stimulus and then encouraged to confront your fears.
The most effective coping techniques are the ones that involve your own body. For example, taking deep breaths and focusing on your breathing will help you calm down and break the anxiety loop.
Having a doctor check your chest pain can make a difference. Visiting a cardiologist can help you get an accurate diagnosis. If your chest pain is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and/or fatigue, your doctor might recommend medications.
The most important thing to remember is that chest pain is a sign of something brewing and should not be ignored. Make a call to 911 if it persists and visit your doctor right away.
