Shortness of breath, indigestion and irritability, what to do?

(Ms. Truong Thi Ly, 32 years old, living in Trang Bom town, Trang Bom district)

Doctor replied:

Hello!

With the symptoms you described such as: shortness of breath, chest tightness, palpitations, indigestion, anxiety, irritability... and the results of the heart and lung examinations were all normal, the doctor thought a lot about the following causes:

- Gastroesophageal reflux : When acid from the stomach flows back up into the esophagus, it can cause chest tightness, shortness of breath, bloating, and indigestion. Reflux can also stimulate the vagus nerve, causing the heart to beat faster, causing anxiety and panic.

- Anxiety disorders : Prolonged or uncontrolled anxiety can cause physical symptoms such as shortness of breath, palpitations, chest tightness, restlessness, and irritability. In fact, many people with anxiety disorders often mistakenly believe they have cardiovascular or respiratory disease.

- Cardiac neurosis : This is a condition in which the nervous system that controls the heart is not functioning properly, causing a feeling of nervousness, rapid heartbeat, and discomfort in the chest area. However, upon in-depth examination, the heart is still completely normal physically.

With your condition, first of all you need to adjust your diet, avoid overeating, avoid spicy, sour, greasy foods, eat on time, and limit lying down right after eating to reduce gastroesophageal reflux.

At the same time, control anxiety by taking time to relax every day, practicing deep breathing, yoga, meditation or light sports activities and adjusting your lifestyle by getting enough sleep, avoiding staying up late, limiting the use of coffee, strong tea, and alcohol.

You can visit the Department of Gastroenterology and Neuropsychiatry or the Department of Cardiology for a more in-depth diagnosis and consultation. If necessary, the doctor will provide further instructions on appropriate medication or treatment.

Most importantly, don’t worry too much. These problems are annoying, but if detected and corrected early, you can take control of your health.

Friendly!

Doctor Duong Thanh Tung,

Internal Medicine, Ai Nghia Medical System