Can you get breathless with anxiety?

Certainly, it is possible to experience breathlessness as a result of anxiety. Anxiety can cause a range of physical symptoms, and one of the common ones is difficulty breathing or a sensation of not getting enough air, which is medically referred to as dyspnea. This can occur when the body's fight-or-flight response is activated due to anxiety, leading to hyperventilation. Hyperventilation is when a person breathes too quickly or too deeply, which can cause an imbalance in the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the body, resulting in breathlessness. When you are anxious, your body may respond by increasing your respiratory rate in an attempt to take in more oxygen and expel more carbon dioxide. However, this rapid breathing can actually make you feel like you can't catch your breath, which can further exacerbate the anxiety and potentially lead to a panic attack. It's important to note that while breathlessness can be a symptom of anxiety, it can also be caused by other medical conditions, so if it's a persistent issue, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional.

If you slightly over breathe, even a yawn or sigh can trigger a panic attack or physical symptoms of anxiety. ... When you get physical symptoms of anxiety (e.g. breathlessness) it may feel like you are not breathing enough. The natural response is to breathe in more.