Dear Patrickj~
You are indeed not alone. The year before last after a continuing and particularly stressful set of events at work I became aware of a dull ache in my chest which became continually worse, this was accompanied by irregular heartbeats, tightness of the chest and some difficulty in breathing.
I did not put two and two together and thought I had probably a heart condition, my age, weight, lack of exercise and being an ex-smoker all pointed that way. I started to collapse and I ended up in A&E. I was held for observation and given just about every test you could think of, including an iodine MRI.
All test came back negative, I was as healthy as a horse.
I've had an anxiety condition, together with other similar matters for a very long time, and do have regular physical effects from this, from headaches to stomach problems. The heart sensation was new.
So if this sounds familiar, bearing in mind everyone will be a bit different, then at least you know those tests you took are in all probability correct. Can you think of anything in your life that might have been extra stressful to set this off?
As the cause of my particular stress was removed the symptoms went with it and I continued on with my regular regimen of therapy and meds, which basically keeps things under control. I've had a couple of more minor episodes since for which the triggers were less upsetting.
The only real way to rid yourself of this highly unpleasant and even frightening set of symptoms is by treating the base cause, your anxiety. Have you talked to your doctor abut a formal diagnosis and possible avenues of treatment? I have never improved just by myself, just by getting support.
I'd also like to ask about personal support. Is there anyone in your life there to talk with and support you? Facing these things alone is extra hard.
I hope to talk with you again
Croix
