Most people experience some anxiety on a daily basis. Anxiety is simply part of life for most people. In most cases, people can manage anxiety using healthy coping skills.
However, some people experience long-lasting or extreme anxiety symptoms that interfere with daily functioning. Anxiety disorders are mental health conditions that affect about 40 million people in the U.S. They can cause people to experience anxiety more often or have especially intense symptoms.
People may experience a range of physical, behavioral, and emotional symptoms associated with anxiety. Some may experience physical symptoms that include chest pain.
This article will explore anxiety-related chest pain and other symptoms. You will learn:
- The symptoms of anxiety
- How to manage anxiety
- What to expect during anxiety disorder treatment
- Where to find mental health treatment and support
If you or someone you love needs treatment for anxiety or other mental health conditions, you are not alone. Contact the Agape Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a feeling of fear, uneasiness, tension, or dread. People may experience emotional and physical symptoms associated with anxiety. Some of the common symptoms of anxiety include:
- Muscle tension
- Rapid heartbeat
- Agitation or restlessness
- Sweating
- Shortness of breath
Anxiety can occur in several situations. People may feel anxious about an upcoming event, when making decisions, during a test, and more. Mental health experts believe this “fight or flight response” can give people energy, strength, and focus during challenging situations.
However, many people experience frequent or intense anxiety that interferes with functioning. This may be a symptom of an anxiety disorder.
Common anxiety disorders include:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Panic disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Phobias
Anxiety disorders typically respond well to treatment. Treatment for anxiety usually includes medications, therapies, education, and lifestyle changes.
Can Anxiety Cause Chest Pain?
Anxiety causes the body to produce greater amounts of certain hormones, including cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones affect heart rate, breathing, muscle tension, and blood pressure. This surge of hormones can cause physical symptoms, including chest pain.
People may experience intense anxiety symptoms during a panic attack. A panic attack is a distressing event that causes:
- Excessive sweating
- A fear of losing control
- Muscle tension
- Increased heart rate
- Dizziness
- Numbness in the arms, legs, face, and other areas
- Tightness in the chest and throat
- An overwhelming sense of dread
- Feeling as though you are dying
Experiencing anxiety-induced chest pain can be alarming. People may worry that they have heart disease or are experiencing a life-threatening medical condition.
If you frequently experience chest pain, seek medical attention. A medical professional can help determine the source of chest pain. Understanding chest pain due to anxiety can help you manage it more effectively.
How to Manage Anxiety-Related Chest Pain
The symptoms of anxiety can impair your quality of life and keep you from functioning well. Anxiety-related chest pain can be distressing. It may also indicate you need professional help to manage anxiety.
In the short term, there are several ways you can reduce anxiety-related chest pain. Here are some steps you can take to address chest pain related to anxiety.
Deep breathing
Anxiety can cause you to take short, shallow breaths. This can cause a tight or choking feeling in the chest and throat. Counteract this symptom of anxiety by taking slow, deep breaths.
Muscle relaxation
Muscle tension can cause a feeling of tightness or pain in the chest. To combat this, practice progressive muscle relaxation. Tense and relax your muscles, starting at your shoulders and working down to your toes.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the practice of staying in the present moment. It can help reduce stress and anxiety symptoms. You can practice mindfulness through guided visualization exercises, meditation, movement, and other practices.
Distraction
In some cases, finding a distraction can help to reduce the symptoms of anxiety. Call a friend, take a walk, or engage in a hobby to distract your mind and body.
If you experience chest pain and other symptoms of anxiety, seek treatment and support at Agape Behavioral Health.
What to Expect During Anxiety Treatment
If you have symptoms that exceed everyday anxiety, you may benefit from professional treatment. Comprehensive mental health treatment programs include evidence-based and holistic therapies. These interventions can teach you about anxiety and give you effective ways to manage your symptoms.
Anxiety treatment programs include:
- Assessments
- Medications
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other talk therapies
- Group and family therapy
- Education
- Holistic therapies and lifestyle changes
Treatment for anxiety is available in inpatient and outpatient levels of care. The level of care you need depends on the severity of your symptoms and other factors.
Find Mental Health Treatment Now
If you or someone you love struggles with anxiety-related chest pain or other mental health symptoms, you are not alone. Find the compassionate, comprehensive treatment you need at Agape Behavioral Health. Contact our mental health professionals to explore your treatment options or to schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA): Anxiety Disorders – Facts & Statistics
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Any Anxiety Disorder
- NIH: Anxiety disorders in patients with noncardiac chest pain: association with health-related quality of life and chest pain severity
- NIH: Prevalence and Implications of Severe Anxiety in a Prospective Cohort of Acute Chest Pain Patients
