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Extreme Hypochondriac, Have Shortness Of Breath, Anxious Of Lungs And Heart Health, Diagnosed With Extreme Tachycardia. Bothersome?

HI,I am suffering from shortness of breath.i am hypochondriac ex-smoker 23 years of age Indian.Very anxious about my lungs and heart health.Now I consulted a doctor and he took ECG .But during ECG,I was very anxious,so it showed extreme tachycardia .Doctor prescribed me etizolam and propranlol Hcl timed releaase tablets.Now anxiety is less,but still very much concerned about heart health.
Mon, 7 Jan 2013
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response

Hello and welcome to Healthcare Magic. Thanks for your query.

Increased heart rate is a common symptom of anxiety and is the reason for the tachycardia manifested in the EKG. Now, it is important to understand that anxiety can present with not only psychological symptoms but also physical symptoms. Beathing difficulty, hyperventillation, chest discomfort, etc. are symptoms which are commonly seen in anxiety disorders. Moreover, you have mentioned that you are a 'hypochondriac' and I presume that you mean that you have unfound fears and anxiety regarding your health. So, it is likely that your symptoms are anxiety-related. Howevr, since you have been a smoker, it is important to also rule out any respiratory causes for the shortness of breath

Etizolam is an anti-anxiety agent and Propranolol is a medication used to control increased heart rate and other physical symptoms of anxiety. In addition to the medication, you would also benefit from psychological therapies like CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) and relation therapies to deal with your anxiety.

Wish you all the best.

Regards,
Dr. Jonas Sundarakumar
Consultant Psychiatrist
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Psychiatrist,  Dr. Sundar Gnanavel's  Response
Hello......
Thanks for your query. Hypochondriasis refers to preoccupation about existence of a disease and may include somatic/bodily and psychic symptoms along with anxiety symptoms. It is possible your shortness of breath and palpitations are symptoms of an anxiety disorder. However, considering you are also a smoker, i suggest you undergo a chest x-ray and evaluation by an internal medicine practitioner. Following this, if normal, you require a thorough psychiatric evaluation for anxiety disorder. Etizolam is a sedative that can transiently control anxiety and propranalol takes care of your palpitations. Additionally, effective anti-anxiety medications and psychotherapy (eg cognitive behavioural therapy) might be required at a later stage. Hope you found the information useful.
Regards
Dr Sundar Gnanavel
Psychiatrist
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Extreme Hypochondriac, Have Shortness Of Breath, Anxious Of Lungs And Heart Health, Diagnosed With Extreme Tachycardia. Bothersome?

Hello and welcome to Healthcare Magic. Thanks for your query. Increased heart rate is a common symptom of anxiety and is the reason for the tachycardia manifested in the EKG. Now, it is important to understand that anxiety can present with not only psychological symptoms but also physical symptoms. Beathing difficulty, hyperventillation, chest discomfort, etc. are symptoms which are commonly seen in anxiety disorders. Moreover, you have mentioned that you are a hypochondriac and I presume that you mean that you have unfound fears and anxiety regarding your health. So, it is likely that your symptoms are anxiety-related. Howevr, since you have been a smoker, it is important to also rule out any respiratory causes for the shortness of breath Etizolam is an anti-anxiety agent and Propranolol is a medication used to control increased heart rate and other physical symptoms of anxiety. In addition to the medication, you would also benefit from psychological therapies like CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) and relation therapies to deal with your anxiety. Wish you all the best. Regards, Dr. Jonas Sundarakumar Consultant Psychiatrist