breathing question?

Question

okay, so for about 1 1/2 months i've been having panic attacks...i think. i went to the ER once. they checked everything and i was fine. lately though, when i breathe, i feel like i get more air in the left lung than the right. what could it be? am i just paranoid?

Answer 1

You could just be paranoid since you now know that you had a panic attack. Or there could actually be something there i wouldn't just let it go. That is why we have doctors so that you don't have worry. Also check your stress levels and see when and what you are doing when you feel that way. Hope you feel better.

Answer 2

For panic attacks, among other treatments, you can breath in and out of a paper bag. The CO2 will slow and deepen your breathing.

Unless your lungs have somehow been damaged, your feeling of more air in the left than the right, is just some external skin sensation or a mental phenomenon.

When the diaphragm contracts, it makes a partial vacuum around the lungs, drawing air into both lungs by air pressure differential.

You worry too much. Learn to calm down. Don't think about your body so much. It was built to operate by itself, without conscious mental control. In fact, trying to control it, interferes with its proper functioning.

Answer 3

It's difficult to discern without listening with a stethoscope. If you need the reassurance, make an appointment at a doctor's office. I think a family practitioner would be just fine. This may be due to your anxiety or panic attacks. Perhaps you could use a short run of anti-anxiety medication like Xanax or Ativan. Be very conscientious because these drugs can be habit forming. I hope you feel better soon.

Answer 4

If you are having "panic attacks", you're not O.K. Did you get a full checkup? Go see your family doctor.

Answer 5

Tell your doctor exactly what you are feeling and ask if he/she would order a Pulmonary Function Test.

Answer 6

I would advise you to ask your doctor

Answer 7

hmm, you should probably get it checked out