breathing symptoms...PLEASE HELP - Anxiety Message Board

stillhopefull · 12-25-2005, 05:20 PM

Can Someone Tell Me What Breathing Symptoms They Experience??
Does Anyone Feel Like They Are Going To Pass Out Because They Are So Short Of Breath?? Someone Please Put My Mind At Ease!!!!

stillhopefull · 12-25-2005, 05:21 PM

What Helps With It?? I Can't Do The Deep Breathing,, It Seems To Make It Worse

bocana · 12-25-2005, 06:45 PM

Hi stillhopefull

I get this alot, especially in the mornings. And the more I focus on my breathing the worse it gets.

For me, cupping my hands over my mouth and nose really helps. I notice how fast I'm breathing and how shallow. (The same idea in using a paper bag). The feeling that you're going to pass out is really common with hyperventilation as is the increased anxiety and spaciness.

Also someone on this board recommended sucking on a hard candy or mint and I have to say it REALLY helps me when I'm breathing weird.

stillhopefull · 12-25-2005, 09:30 PM

ty.. ya know It got so bad tonight, i just got back from the er!!! They did ekg, chest exray, blood tests, everything was good of course!!!! I feel better now.. but know it is only temperary. I do carry gum and hard candy with me, because it helps usually a little bit.. but this time was HORRIBLE

Thank you for your advice, I will try that!!
Merry Christmas

Triple777 · 12-26-2005, 06:56 PM

What I've noticed helps most are distractions. I've started playing video games that take up all my attention, and feel great while I'm playing. I know exactly what you're talking about though. I've had nightmares and woke up with my heart racing, and then the breathing thing starts. It's such a weird feeling, but if you think to yourself that even though it "feels" like you can't breathe, yet you can, then you're okay. You are breathing, so you're okay, so it's okay. Try to think of it that way and see if it helps! There have been days upon days that I've "felt" like I can't breathe, but I keep breathing! Anyway, it's actually been a lot better since I've been thinking of it that way! Hope you feel better soon!