What is this???

I've been under a lot of stress lately, and I think I'm having panic attacks. When I start thinking about certain problems - which I can't seem to stop obsessing about - my chest tightens up and it's hard to breathe. It feels like my heart will stop or is swelling up in my chest. Is this what a panic attack feels like?

Since I've been depressed anyway, I keep thinking maybe I'm having a heart attack. I'm also a smoker, so I could be having some sort of lung/heart issues from the abuse my poor body suffers due to my crappy habits.

(((((( englishteacher )))))))

Well, yes that does sound like the beginnings of a panic attack, you can learn some relaxation techniques and learn to steady your breathing. I would say though for you to go see your Doctor to rule out any physical problems.

It does sound like it could be a panic attack. Have you ever tried breathing through a straw to slow your breathing when it happens? It's really hard to do but it seems to help me slow my breathing in the midst of an attack. Sorry you are experiencing this. It is such a terrible feeling.

My therapist in high school taught me some relaxation and breathing techniques. I'll try that - thanks for the advice. It seems like a simple solution, but I have a feeling it will be more difficult to actually think of the relaxation techniques when I feel like there is a boulder on my chest...it seems funny now...such a simple solution, but it never crossed my mind.

The tips my therapist gave me do work. Takes some practice. I put them in your profile.

I tried it this weekend when my brain wouldn't stop spinning. It takes a while to focus on breathing instead of panic....but it did calm me down! Thanks for the advice Byz!

I take a throw pillow from my couch and clutch it tightly to my chest and lean forward like I'm going to crash in an airplane, and breathe deeply. It helps my gut feelings and heart palps. If you experience any pain with your symptoms you should probably see a Phys.....