The first quarter can be just as overwhelming as the end of the year. Between tax season, work deadlines, and the pressure to stick to New Year’s resolutions, stress levels can run high. Even one of these factors can feel like a lot to handle — together, they can be downright exhausting.
In fact, a recent study by the National Library of Medicine stated that at least one in three Americans had suffered anxiety disorders in their lifetimes — and it’s worsening due to healthcare and financial burdens. We even have our own recent survey of US adults proving 93% of Americans are worried about inflation — which may be adding to this anxiety pandemic.
While you’re probably familiar with common anxiety symptoms like feeling restless, fatigued or irritable, a panic or anxiety attack can cause more intense symptoms like nausea, an increased heart rate and chest pain. According to another 2018 study, in 30% to 40% of patients seen in the emergency room for low-risk chest pain, anxiety is the cause. However, telling the difference between a heart attack and chest pain caused by anxiety can be challenging, especially if you’re in the midst of an anxiety attack.
Let’s discuss more about how anxiety affects the body, as well as the difference between an anxiety attack and a heart attack. We’ll also provide some tips for dealing with chest pain caused by anxiety.
Why does anxiety cause tightness in the chest?
Anxiety is our body’s natural response to stress. When we experience fear, our autonomic nervous system’s fight-or-flight response is activated to protect us. This response includes both brain and body changes. Our brains are flooded with adrenaline and cortisol, while physical changes include sweating, shortness of breath or tightening muscles. As muscles tense and your heart rate increases, you may begin to hyperventilate and contribute to chest pain.
What does anxiety chest pain feel like?
Chest pain is a common symptom of panic attacks. Tightness in the chest caused by anxiety can present in several ways. For some, the onset of chest discomfort may be gradual, while others may feel it very quickly.
