Expert: David Richardson - 7/23/2007

Question
am 60, male, general good health / diet. occasionally suffer feelings of anxiety (for no reason), accompanied by breathlessness, dizziness, palpitations, and fear of fainting (yes, i know they all reinforce one another and add to the feeling of  anxiety). my doc had me do full heart check, ekg, echo, halter, etc., nothing untoward - other than i have a very low heart rate. these 'spells' last anywhere from 10minutes to 2 hours. i rest, relax, but they remain and disappear of their own accord.

should i be worried?

Answer
Dear Leslie,

Well, they sure are a big nuisance, tho not a threat to life.  Some of the symptoms may occure because you overbreathe in response to the anxiety and feeling breathless.  Try breathing in and out through a brown paper lunch bag covering your nose and mouth.  Or just notice if you're breathing hard and fast and consciously slow your breathing and make it less deep.

Please write back if this note doesn't answer all your questions and PLEASE let me know if you find that overbreathing contributes to your symptoms, or if not.

David Richardson