[18F] Experiencing shortness of breath, chest pain, and dizziness

Patient Description

An 18-year-old female has been experiencing shortness of breath since the age of 15, rating the severity as 5/10. The patient describes a sensation of not getting enough oxygen, feeling numb, and experiencing episodes both at rest and during physical activity. These episodes are accompanied by dizziness, a racing heart, and chest discomfort but no radiating pain. Additionally, the patient reports waking up with body aches, particularly in the muscles and neck, with the most severe pain in the chest. The symptoms are triggered by arguments, sirens, gunshots, and loud noises. The patient has not identified any alleviating factors and usually needs to lay or sit down to catch her breath. There are no known pre-existing conditions, chronic illnesses, or current medications reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

  • Panic Disorder: This is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by recurring panic attacks, during which people feel a sudden, intense fear that peaks within minutes. Symptoms can include palpitations, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, and a feeling of impending doom. The triggers you mentioned (arguments, sirens, gunshots, and loud noises) could be causing these panic attacks.

    • Treatment usually involves cognitive-behavioral therapy and/or medication.
  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder: This is a common anxiety disorder that involves chronic worrying, nervousness, and tension. Physical symptoms can include muscle tension, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing.

    • Treatment usually involves cognitive-behavioral therapy and/or medication.
  • Asthma: This is a condition in which your airways narrow and swell and produce extra mucus. This can make breathing difficult and trigger coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

    • Treatment involves using asthma medications to prevent or treat symptoms.
  • Costochondritis: This is an inflammation of the cartilage in your rib cage. It causes chest pain that can be severe and can be mistaken for a heart attack. The pain might get worse when you move or breathe deeply.

    • Treatment usually involves pain relievers and rest.

Please note that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Seek medical attention: It's important to discuss these symptoms with a healthcare provider. They can perform a physical examination, ask further questions, and possibly order tests to help determine what's causing your symptoms.

  2. Practice deep breathing: When you're feeling short of breath, try to take slow, deep breaths. This can help calm your body and mind.

  3. Try relaxation techniques: Techniques such as yoga, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce symptoms of panic and anxiety.

  4. Stay active: Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety by boosting your mood and acting as a natural stress reliever.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your shortness of breath becomes severe or is accompanied by chest pain, fainting, or confusion.
  • You experience a sudden worsening of your symptoms.
  • You have difficulty swallowing or feel like you're choking.
  • You have thoughts of harming yourself or others.

Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

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8 mo ago


People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of a panic disorder?

Common symptoms of a panic disorder include sudden and intense fear, palpitations, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, and a feeling of impending doom. These symptoms often peak within minutes during a panic attack.


How can anxiety disorders affect physical health?

Anxiety disorders can lead to physical symptoms such as muscle tension, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, headaches, and fatigue. Chronic anxiety can also affect the immune system and increase the risk of other health issues.


What are the typical treatments for asthma?

Typical treatments for asthma include the use of inhalers that deliver medication to open the airways, such as bronchodilators, and anti-inflammatory medications like corticosteroids to reduce airway inflammation. Lifestyle changes and avoiding triggers are also important.


What is costochondritis and how is it treated?

Costochondritis is an inflammation of the cartilage that connects a rib to the breastbone, causing chest pain that can be severe. It is typically treated with pain relievers, such as NSAIDs, and rest. In some cases, physical therapy may be recommended.


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1 Comments


lexi#4038

8 mo ago

In my late 20s I started having panic attacks that sounded similar to what ur describing, Mine would last around 20 mins. For me SSRIs and cognitive behavioral therapy were pretty effective

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