[19F] Experiencing anxiety with chest symptoms

Patient Description

A 19-year-old female reports long-standing anxiety, which has been worsening, and is currently experiencing a racing, pounding heart, chills, nausea, and a pressure sensation in the chest that makes breathing slightly difficult. These symptoms have been present for a few minutes to an hour. The patient has noticed that the heart racing is exacerbated by exercise. The patient has been dealing with anxiety for years, which has fluctuated in intensity and is currently impacting daily life. The patient is on Adderall and reports no known allergies or chronic illnesses.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possibilities:

  • Anxiety Disorder: Your symptoms of anxiety, racing heart, and chest pressure could be related to an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are a group of mental disorders characterized by significant feelings of anxiety and fear. Anxiety can cause physical symptoms such as a racing heart and chest tightness.

    • Treatment typically involves a combination of psychotherapy (talk therapy), cognitive behavioral therapy, and medication.
  • Panic Attack: You could be experiencing a panic attack, which is a sudden episode of intense fear that triggers severe physical reactions when there is no real danger or apparent cause. Panic attacks can be very frightening and can include symptoms such as a racing heart, feeling weak or dizzy, and chest pain.

    • Treatment often involves psychotherapy and medication.
  • Side effects of Adderall: Adderall is a stimulant medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Side effects can include anxiety, rapid heart rate, and chest pain. If you've recently started this medication or increased your dose, this could be contributing to your symptoms.

    • If you suspect this is the case, you should reach out to your healthcare provider who prescribed the medication.

What you can do

  1. Seek professional help: If your symptoms are causing you distress or interfering with your daily life, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. They can provide a formal diagnosis and discuss treatment options with you.

  2. Practice self-care: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and reducing caffeine and alcohol can all help reduce symptoms of anxiety and improve your overall well-being.

  3. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, and meditation can help manage symptoms of anxiety.

  4. Reach out to your healthcare provider: If you suspect your symptoms are related to your Adderall, reach out to your healthcare provider. They can discuss your symptoms with you and may adjust your medication if needed.

What you should look out for

  • If your symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention.
  • If you experience severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting, seek immediate medical attention as these could be signs of a serious condition.

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm an AI and not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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1 yr ago

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People Also Ask


What are common symptoms of an anxiety disorder?

Common symptoms of an anxiety disorder include excessive worry, restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances. Physical symptoms can also include a racing heart, sweating, and chest tightness.


How can I differentiate between a panic attack and a heart-related issue?

Panic attacks often involve a sudden onset of intense fear or discomfort, with symptoms like a racing heart, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Heart-related issues may also cause chest pain and shortness of breath, but they often occur with exertion and may be accompanied by other symptoms like nausea or pain radiating to the arm. It's important to seek medical attention to rule out heart issues.


What are the potential side effects of taking Adderall?

Adderall can cause side effects such as increased heart rate, anxiety, insomnia, dry mouth, loss of appetite, and mood swings. If you experience severe side effects, it's important to contact your healthcare provider.


What lifestyle changes can help manage anxiety symptoms?

Lifestyle changes that can help manage anxiety include regular physical activity, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, and practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation.


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