Palpitations bad tonight feel I can't breathe, what should I do?

[StormsDontLastForever]

Long time sufferer of anxiety, palpitations are really bad tonight, feel like I really can't breathe properly (although I am breathing just feels I can't get a proper breath through). Been having palpitations on and off for a few weeks, doctor has sent me for an ecg but date got prosponed due to Covid. Feel like I can feel my heart beating a lot more just now, been getting sharp pains in my chest for a few days which I know is stress related. Any advice on what I should do? I don't want to call out of hours as it is probably my anxiety and don't want to waste their time as I'm sure they will be really busy. Slept most of the day today & just feel absolutley exhausted.

I don't have any advice but wanted to reply so you know you're not alone. Anxiety is such a horrible thing which grips your life.

Have you tried any breathing exercises to help? Simple ones like in for 4 out for 6 can sometimes just help me focus a little bit more on how in feeling. I know they don't always work if things are really bad.

I think if you're worried enough to post here maybe reaching out for medical help is the safest option?

If you’re having chest pain I would ring 111

@Lemonysherbet thank you, anxiety is defiantly a horrible thing to experience and I would never wish it on anyone, I do usually do breathing exercises but they don't seem to be working just now, I will try again soon. I think it's just been the stress of all the last few days & the pandemic etc. Dd is only 6 so been so stressed trying to sort her Xmas etc.

@CrystalMaisie I have been having them on and off for a few days now which makes me think it's just anxiety related. I really don't want to waste anyone's time or go and sit in a hospital/gp environment if I don't really need to as it will increase my anxiety

I agree with Crystal, I wouldn't just write off pains as anxiety. It could well be anxiety but does need checking

Anxiety is the pits isn't it OP , sorry you're feeling crappy. Is there anything you find that helps? I like a nice bath, watching something light hearted and funny (Gavin and Stacey normally does it), listening to a podcast. I've tried anxiety apps/books but sometimes find focussing on it makes it worse IYSWIM?

If you phone 111 they will send the paramedics to you, and they can decide if you need to be seen or not.
You are ill enough to need help so you are not wasting anyone's time. Do you get anti anxiety meds?

OP, you wouldn't be wasting anyone's time - it does sound anxiety-related (I have anxiety too) and hopefully it's nothing bad, but if I was feeling this way I think I'd be wanting to get myself checked out. I'd certainly call 111 and see what they say. Hope you feel better soon.

Thank you all. If the chest pain returns I will definetley call 111 at the moment I'm going to lie on my back and do some breathing exercises and hope it lifts a bit with the breathing etc. Will keep you all updated. Thank you

There is a list of symptoms that you should always get looked at; difficulty breathing/shortness of breath is one of them.

Hello, I get anxiety too so it really sucks. Before you call emergency try to.go on you tube and plug in headphones to listen to Dr Aine Tubridy. She was an anxiety specialist and those recordings there really help me. Just listen to them several times. Your anxiety will subside. When things are less bad you might try cbt or specific therapy to help. My anxiety was bad enough that I got hospitalised, now very little problem with it and when it does kick off I can manage.
So sorry I know exactly how hard it can be.
Have you tried sipping a glass of water slowly and having tiny sips and focussing only on these? Always good for me in slowing down a racing mind.
Xx

I also meant to say, the biggest learn for me in cbt was to accept and not fight the panic or tight breathing. Just go with it and let it come and go.