Advice for breathing issues.

[Ambierain]

Hello everyone and happy new year.

I wondered if I could get some advice for an issue I'm having with my breathing. Before Christmas I got into a right state with heart palpitations, since then I've had an ECG which was fine and given propranolol to see if it helps the palps. I'm not too worried about them anymore, but I have since developed an issue with my breathing. I have a heaviness on my chest that can be elevated momentarily if I yawn/take a deep breath. The problem is I'm becoming obsessed with taking deep breaths, it's like my body is craving it, and most of the time I'll take deep breath and wont get that satisfying feeling because I dont think I actually need the deep breath, its like my brain is saying "what are you doing??". I was ready to put this down to yet another anxiety symptom but I stupidly googled and found out this could be a lung issue and now I'm just...argh. I had my oxygen levels /blood pressure/heart rate checked and heart listened to by the Dr on the 27th of December and all were normal (oxygen level was 99) so surely my lungs are actually ok? I've been walking everyday for 25 minutes and haven't been getting out of breath. I do feel more tightness and feel heavier breathing whilst I walk but I think that might just be me so focused on my breathing that I'm noticing things I wouldn't usually.

I think I'm mostly worried because I vape and have somewhat convinced myself I have caused some kind of lung disease/damage. I really don't want to go back to the Dr because the NHS is stretched enough without me making constant appointments.

I guess I'd just like to know whether anyone else has had this and what triggered it? This wasn't a thing before I started hyperfixating on my heart/chest, so surely it has to be anxiety...right?

Thank you.

[Boydo]

How bizzare,

Ive just posted the same thing about breathing, I have too been doing the same had it a bit in december and it went now this last week none stop feel like im not taking in a deep enough breath. I also given up with doctors or hospital as i know all good on that side and you just be dismissed. not entirely there fault the nhs is stretched atm. Breathing exersies help and constantly tell yourself you are ok and it anxiety. I know that last bit impossible & hard to do as once your head in that state your stuck. Hope you find some comfort soon,.

[Ambierain]

@boydo I'm so sorry you're dealing with this as well, so sorry. I cried today because it is currently ruining my life and I don't know how to get out of it. I'm 99% certain it's nothing serious because there are moments (they are rare) where it doesn't happen because I've managed to focus on something else. My entire respiratory system right now is so prevelant. I'm hearing every sound and change, every breath, every speed up. It's like having palpitations of your breath, it's horrendous. Everytime I go out for a walk I'm convinced I'm gonna pass out from shortness of breath because my lungs are collapsing, but logically of course I am going to be more out of breath and in pain if I'm stood worrying about my lungs every step of the way. The only time I don't feel it is when I'm asleep, which again reassures because I think if it was a physical issue it would have woken me up or my partner would have heard/seen some kind of change when I sleep.

Sorry for the rant, I just feel so down right now. I hope you're ok and feeling a bit better today.

[Claire83_]

Hi, are you still struggling with this? Did you see a doctor?
Have you got hay fever? Apparently tree pollen started really early this year, in January. And the pollen count in general has been high a lot.
I just joined the forum and did a search on shortness of breath, which is how I came across your post. I'm going to post separately but thought I'd see how you've got on.
Claire

[smogie]

Have you heard of air hunger relating to anxiety I had it years ago was focussed on my breathing all the time and always trying for that deep breath

[patbell]

Hello everyone and happy new year.

I wondered if I could get some advice for an issue I'm having with my breathing. Before Christmas I got into a right state with heart palpitations, since then I've had an ECG which was fine and given propranolol to see if it helps the palps. I'm not too worried about them anymore, but I have since developed an issue with my breathing. I have a heaviness on my chest that can be elevated momentarily if I yawn/take a deep breath. The problem is I'm becoming obsessed with taking deep breaths, it's like my body is craving it, and most of the time I'll take deep breath and wont get that satisfying feeling because I dont think I actually need the deep breath, its like my brain is saying "what are you doing??". I was ready to put this down to yet another anxiety symptom but I stupidly googled and found out this could be a lung issue and now I'm just...argh. I had my oxygen levels /blood pressure/heart rate checked and heart listened to by the Dr on the 27th of December and all were normal (oxygen level was 99) so surely my lungs are actually ok? I've been walking everyday for 25 minutes and haven't been getting out of breath. I do feel more tightness and feel heavier breathing whilst I walk but I think that might just be me so focused on my breathing that I'm noticing things I wouldn't usually.

I think I'm mostly worried because I thc vape (https://highthc.shop/product-category/thc-vape-pen/) and have somewhat convinced myself I have caused some kind of lung disease/damage. I really don't want to go back to the Dr because the NHS is stretched enough without me making constant appointments.

I guess I'd just like to know whether anyone else has had this and what triggered it? This wasn't a thing before I started hyperfixating on my heart/chest, so surely it has to be anxiety...right?

Thank you.

Hi !

It sounds like your symptoms could be related to anxiety. Since your recent tests (oxygen levels, blood pressure, heart rate) were normal, your lungs are likely fine. The heaviness and urge to take deep breaths might be due to anxiety making you overly aware of your breathing.
The fact that you can walk for 25 minutes without getting out of breath is a good sign. Your focus on breathing might be causing you to notice sensations you wouldn’t usually.
It might help to try some relaxation techniques or breathing exercises to manage your anxiety. If your symptoms continue or change, it’s okay to check in with a doctor again. But right now, based on your tests, everything seems alright. Take care!

[kailashhospital]

From what you’ve described, it sounds like you’re experiencing significant anxiety related to your health, particularly around your heart and breathing. I can understand how distressing this must be for you, and I’m glad to hear that your ECG results were normal and that your vital signs were good during your recent check-up.
The symptoms you’re describing, such as a heaviness in your chest and the compulsion to take deep breaths, are indeed common in anxiety and stress-related conditions. Anxiety can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and heart palpitations. It’s also not uncommon for people to become hyper-aware of their breathing and other bodily functions during periods of anxiety, which can create a cycle of increased anxiety and physical symptoms.

Given that your oxygen levels, blood pressure, and heart rate were normal, and that you’re able to walk without significant issues, it’s unlikely that there’s a serious underlying lung condition. The fact that your symptoms are alleviated, even momentarily, by taking a deep breath, also points more towards anxiety rather than a physical lung issue.

However, it’s important to address your concerns about vaping. Vaping can have negative effects on your lung health, and it’s good that you’re thinking about this. If you’re worried about the impact of vaping, it might be a good opportunity to consider reducing or quitting altogether, which could help alleviate some of your anxiety about potential lung damage.

Here are a few suggestions to help manage your symptoms:


Relaxation Techniques: Practice deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or meditation to help reduce anxiety.
Physical Activity: Continue with your daily walks or consider other forms of exercise, as physical activity can help reduce anxiety.
Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: These can sometimes exacerbate anxiety symptoms.
Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration can also help with overall wellbeing.
Talk to a Professional: If your anxiety continues to be overwhelming, consider talking to a mental health professional who can help you develop strategies to manage it.


If your symptoms persist or worsen, seeking further medical advice is important. The NHS is there to help, and it’s always better to get checked out if you’re unsure.

Take care, and I hope you find some relief soon.