Anxiety Attack Symptoms
There are many different reasons for chest pains. Of course, the cause that is most concerning is cardiac related chest pains. Therefore all chest pain should be taken seriously. If you are experiencing chest pain, see your medical doctor so that it can be properly diagnosed.
However, anxiety and chest pains is very common and is what this article is all about.
It’s what happens to the body during a panic or anxiety attack that leads to chest pains and other physical symptoms. Panic is like an alarm that goes off in your body to signal danger. Unfortunately, this alarm tends to activate whether there is a real or psychological threat. For example, feeling emotionally overwhelmed would be a type of psychological threat.
To better understand how anxiety and chest pains go together, we must look at the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS is divided into two parts: the somatic nervous system which governs bodily functions that are voluntary and the autonomic nervous system (ANS) which controls bodily functions which are automatic. The ANS governs things like heart rate, respiration, digestion, organ regulation, endocrine gland secretions, etc.
The ANS is further divided into 2 parts: the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems. The sympathetic nervous system is what prepares your body to deal with impending danger through the well known flight or fight response. The parasympathetic nervous system maintains smooth, normal functioning of your organs when you are in a state of calm and rest.
Anxiety Attack Symptoms What Causes Anxiety and Chest Pains?
In a panic attack, one may experience anxiety and chest pains because adrenalin begins to course through your body, causing your heart to race and your muscles to contract. Anxiety or panic attacks often cause chest pain, heart palpitations, throat tightness etc. because of muscle contractions. Other reactions that could contribute to anxiety and chest pains would be excess release of stomach acid and inhibition of digestion.
Chest pains can be caused by many different things. Therefore it is important to get them properly diagnosed. If you are having chest pains of an unknown origin please see your medical professional. If you would like more information on anxiety and panic attacks an excellent resource is The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook. A thorough, concise, step-by-step manual for mastering various types of anxiety.
One of the best resources available for reducing and managing anxiety is through the use of biofeedback techniques.