Panic Attack Chest Pain

Panic attack chest pain is a common symptom of a panic attack. Chest pain may have many causes. Obviously, rule out anything to do with your heart. You must rule out other serious causes.

There are cardiac and non-cardiac chest pains. Generally, if it's a heart attack, you will have a crushing pain. It may be evident in your back, neck, jaw, shoulders and left arm.

Symptoms

Panic attack affects people differently. For those affected in the chest, here are some things you may feel or go through:

chest pain, tightness, shortness of breath, palpitations, choking , sweating, nausea, dizziness. You may be rushed to the emergency room - only to be told you're fine (even though you were convinced you were dying).

A panic attack causes a sudden release of chemicals directly into your bloodstream. Since everything in our body is connected, this could cause you chest difficulties.

The chest discomfort that you feel will be generalized. If it was a heart concern, it should be more localized (to the left). Having said that, it is best to be safe.

Things You Can Do

Here are things you should look into, to help reduce your panic-related chest problems. Remember, always start slowly. Always make sure you feel comfortable. Set aside time just for you:

Relaxation - use tapes or cds, yoga, music.

Exercise - stimulates endorphin release.

Deep breathing - learn the proper way.

Therapy - consider counseling or psychotherapy.

Diet - food DOES play a major role in panic.

Remember that in a panic attack chest pain is harmless. Once your doctor can confirm that it is not your heart but panic-related, then realize that it is completely harmless.

Go to Panic Attack vs Heart Attack

Return from Panic Attack Chest Pain page to the Panic-And-Agoraphobia home page.