Anxiety vs asthma - how do I know which one it is?

Mental health
1

I'm hoping someone could give me some help or shed some light.

Last year I was diagnosed as having anxiety and shortly afterwards I was diagnosed with having asthma due to being tight chested and not being able to breathe right. However I'm not 100% convinced it's anxiety and even though I've been prescribed inhalers I don't use them - partly because I'm worried it's not asthma and also when I did use it previously my heart raced and I felt shaky (not sure if it's because I was scared about taking it)

I have been back and forth to the drs and to see the asthma nurse, who has now referred me to see a respiratory therapist.

What my question is is how can/do people know if the tight chest and not being able to exhale is a sign of anxiety or asthma?

I am really struggling with the 2 and as a consequence I get all panicky.

Is anyone able to help?

2

Hi we all say that it can't be anxiety. But believe me it sounds like anxiety. Most people who are looking for answers about anxiety. It's scary and make you feel ill . shake s feeling sick head ache s. Funny feeling all over your body. You're right about the tight cheat i also get this. Then you'll mouth go's dry sweaty hands leg's like jelly. Sounded like you . Anxiety is very smart and controlling of your brain. Have a good read up on it . hope this helps.

Remember that you are not alone.

Regards shell

3

Hi Shell

I use to get all those symptoms when I was first diagnosed with anxiety but as time has gone on, some of these symptoms have now gone (or I don't notice them as much these days).

My breathless is worse scares me as I think I can die from an asthma attack but not from an anxiety/panic attack.

I know I shouldn't think like this but that what goes through my mind.

I did read up on anxiety but when I read stuff I convince myself I have other things wrong with me - catch 22.

I know I'm not alone but there are timer when I sure feel like that.

4

Hey im having the exact same problem please send me your email so we can talk there

5

Hi there why do you have to have a email address when you can help others by reading the replies