Yes, anxiety causes oxygen levels to drop. The first observable sign of anxiety is the shortness of breath (dyspnea). The breathing issue is not always physical. The mental condition of yours can also affect the rate of breathing.
Anxiety and shortness of breath issues
Anxiety is our fight-or-flight response and its normal in every individual. Shortness of breath is one of those responses. You may feel following under these scenarios
- Hungry for air
- Suffocation
- Tightness in your chest
- Unable to catch a breath
There is a strong relation between anxiety and respiratory symptoms, including shortness of breath, and many studies have supported it.
Other symptoms of anxiety
- Heart palpitations
- Feeling faint, dizzy, or unsteady
- Nausea or stomach discomfort
- A lump sensation in your throat
- Faster breathing
- Muscle tension
- Restlessness, irritability, or feeling on edge
Causes of shortness of breath from anxiety
When you are about to experience a dangerous scenario or ready to fight or when you are afraid. The body prepares you to fight. This causes the heart rate to increase leading to fast breathing. Your muscles receive more oxygen so that you can run.
Of course, you don’t face such events every day. But some events might trigger this response e.g presentation, crowded place and etc. This mechanism is normal and designed as such to save your life.
How to get rid of shortness of breath from anxiety
- Slow the rate of your breathing
- Use less energy and effort to breathe
- Decrease your demand for oxygen
- Pursed lip breathing
- Stand with a supported back
- Sleep with relaxing posture
- Sit on a chair and lean forward
- Stop doing exertion
- Exhale properly than inhale
How to prevent anxiety
- Healthy routine
- Stay in shape
- Visit your therapist
- Maintain a proper diet
- Take prescribed medication if necessary
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