Experiencing shortness of breath again! Help!

I have been experiencing shortness of breath for two days now. I can't seem to get a normal, deep, and satisfying breath sometimes and it makes me scared. Sometimes I can get a breath, sometimes I can't. I had this episode at least three or four years ago and had done tests whilst experiencing it. All tests came out normal or at least not concerning. I was diagnosed with acid reflux and stress by a medical doctor. Says either my shortness of breath may either be caused by stress or acid reflux or both. For the past few weeks, I've had a terrible sleep because of what's happening in my home. It's like waking up to a noisy old folks home everyday here so it's really stressful, plus the huge financial struggle we had experienced recently because of a family member's hospitalization, and I constantly worry over my own health. It's terrible! Right now, I am only able to achieve a full breath when (1) I don't intentionally try to inhale deeply, (2) After a short physical activity, and (3) lying down on my belly. My chest also feels tight too and am experiencing palpitations. I have had no history of a heart or lung disease whatsoever and am trying not to get one too. What's wrong with me?

it’s no wonder you can’t catch your breath. You have a lot going on right now. The stress and anxiety pile up and affect your breathing, causing chest tightness and palpitations. The symptoms are very common with anxiety and stress. there are some great short meditations on anxiety for breathing. They are found on YouTube. When you’re feeling really extremely anxious, search YouTube for something called stop panic attacks now. Even if you’re not having a panic attack, they show you how to breathe to lower your heart rate and to feel a lot better and more relaxed. also consider speaking with a therapist or counselor about everything that’s going on. They can help you manage the anxiety so you feel more peaceful. take care

Thank you for your reply! I'll go check that out. I'm so worried because of a recent event that involved heart health here i the family. I am scared if I also have the same heart problem. I'm a little young for heart problems.

yes you have too much swirling in your head and stress in your life. when you have a constant stress level even if you dont have panic, your body is reacting to the stress. one thing it does that you are not concious of, is shallow breathing which can cause more anxiety, chest tightness and feeling lime you cant get a full breath when you try to. i also get this feeling sometimes w my acid reflux or when theres a lot of allergens in the air or even if im dehydrated! with my anxiety its the worst though. remind yourself of what the reality of tbe breathing issue is-- simple (complicated) life stressors and that feeling of not being able to breathe-- scary as that feels-- is not going to harm you. keep reminding yourself. " ugh theres my annoying anxiety breathing again" i hope you get some relief soon!!

Thank you for your reply! This has been going on for a week now. I'm scared.