Has anyone else ever had a feeling of like they can't breathe, even though they are breathing just fine? Especially when I'm nervous, I get this feeling a lot, but I haven't been able to place down exactly what this feeling is. But it's like I have to take deep breaths and I still feel like I'm not breathing well even then?
this is actually pretty common in anxiety. i’m going to link you to this article i found on the matter. but keep in mind that they suggest you discuss this with a doctor, and i agree. it could be anxiety, or it could be something else. i know i’ve experienced this a lot myself, and i have a severe anxiety disorder.
Anxiety related breathing issues tend to be a result of hyperventilation. Hyperventilation is also known as “overbreathing,” and it occurs when your body is receiving too much oxygen and is expelling too much carbon dioxide.
Even though the bodies need oxygen, healthy carbon dioxide levels are still important. When you are taking in too much air and letting out too much oxygen, it can cause your body to feel like you’re not breathing enough. Anxiety hyperventilation is often caused by one of two issues:
Breathing too fast, such as during an anxiety attack when your body is in fight/flight mode.
Thinking about your breathing, which may cause you to take in more air then you need.
The latter is common in people with health anxieties and panic attacks. These individuals are often concerned about their health so they start to control their own breathing, and ultimately try to take in too much air in order to feel their chest expand for a full breath. The body often doesn’t need that much air, and shortness of breath occurs.
you can read the article in full here and i think that will be beneficial to you as they offer tips on short term coping and long term coping as well.
remember though, its still advisable to go and consult a doctor about this!
