short of breath when talking - Anxiety Message Board

Carolynlg · 11-05-2009, 01:21 AM

Hi, I'm a 68 year old woman who has had difficulty breathing and talking for the last 5 months. My Dr says it is Anxiety but I have never felt that I am a anxious person. Now however when I try to talk it very often comes out in severe aspirations one or two words at a time and barely more than a whiper. It is frustrating for me and for those trying to listen to me. Occasionally this will be accompanied by a mild dizzziness. I am on 20mg of Fluoxetine daily and also take on an as needed basis .5mg of Lorazepam. This doesn't seem to have much affect at all. Any suggestions?

justme9 · 11-18-2009, 08:44 AM

Hello.
Shortness of breath could just be your anxiety. Sometimes the start of a new anti depressive medicine can increase your anxiety; but it shouldnt last. I am on the same thing. 20 mg of fluoxetine, and 1 mg of lorazepam 3 times a day.
What works for me with the shortness of breath and dizziness feeling is deep breathing exercises. In through the nose out through the mouth. Always remember to breathe with your stomach.

Also. these meds can produce dizziness as a side effect and or slurred speech. The lorazepam.

Carolynlg · 11-18-2009, 10:00 AM

Thanks for answering. I appreciate your taking the time. It is some better. At least on some days. LOL. I guess one day at a time huh?

hry33 · 11-18-2009, 12:27 PM

fluoxetine or prozac works for some but not others, can take up to 6 weeks to start helping ask about upping the dose of the other med

you need to learn new ways to relax and calm yourself, gentle exercise helps, so does house cleaning

yes stress can stop you taking deep breaths so lie in a hot bath to relax muscles and take deep slow breaths, this may make you dizzy until you get used to it

practise talking out loud when alone, pick up something and read out loud

Carolynlg · 11-19-2009, 11:04 AM

Thanks for the suggestions. Your reply is appreciated.