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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Are Chest Pains With Anxiety Disorder Dangerous?

Have panic disorder on no meds for it. But i constantly sit feet underneath me and curled up scrunched over and im getting lil chest pains from time to time (nothing major) my husband says its from bad posture but i keep freaking out worried im having a heart attack cause of my stupid anxiety! Is this normal?
Wed, 17 Sep 2014
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Psychiatrist 's  Response
Hello and thanks for your query.

I understand that you have been diagnosed to have panic disorder and are now very worried about your chest discomfort - wondering whether it could be due to a serious problem like a heart attack.

Now, it is important to realize that anxiety can present with not only psychological symptoms but also with physical or somatic symptoms. Chest tightness, discomfort and chest pain are very common symptoms in persons with anxiety disorders. During a panic attack, it is very common for the person to fear whether he or she is having a heart attack.

But to be on the safer side, it would be better to have a proper medical examination and an ECG to rule out any heart problems. If this has already been done, then you needn't worry about your symptoms as they are most likely anxiety-related.

I would suggest that it would be worthwhile to consult a psychiatrist for a detailed psychological assessment and professional help for your anxiety / panic problems. There are effective treatment options - in the form of medication and psychological therapy.

Additionally, you can also try simple relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, etc. which can be quite helpful.

Regular physical exercise helps in relieving both the physical as well as psychological symptoms of anxiety and also helps you stay more functional.

Wish you all the best.

- Dr. Jonas Sundarakumar
Consultant Psychiatrist
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Are Chest Pains With Anxiety Disorder Dangerous?

Hello and thanks for your query. I understand that you have been diagnosed to have panic disorder and are now very worried about your chest discomfort - wondering whether it could be due to a serious problem like a heart attack. Now, it is important to realize that anxiety can present with not only psychological symptoms but also with physical or somatic symptoms. Chest tightness, discomfort and chest pain are very common symptoms in persons with anxiety disorders. During a panic attack, it is very common for the person to fear whether he or she is having a heart attack. But to be on the safer side, it would be better to have a proper medical examination and an ECG to rule out any heart problems. If this has already been done, then you needn t worry about your symptoms as they are most likely anxiety-related. I would suggest that it would be worthwhile to consult a psychiatrist for a detailed psychological assessment and professional help for your anxiety / panic problems. There are effective treatment options - in the form of medication and psychological therapy. Additionally, you can also try simple relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, etc. which can be quite helpful. Regular physical exercise helps in relieving both the physical as well as psychological symptoms of anxiety and also helps you stay more functional. Wish you all the best. - Dr. Jonas Sundarakumar Consultant Psychiatrist