How to Tell if Shortness of Breath is from Anxiety or Another Underlying Condition

Feeling Breathless? How to Tell if Shortness of Breath Is from Anxiety or Another Underlying Condition

Shortness of breath can be a scary and unsettling experience. Whether it comes on suddenly or builds gradually, many people wonder the same thing: Is this anxiety, or is something else going on? Knowing how to tell if shortness of breath is from anxiety versus a medical condition is key to getting the right help and finding peace of mind. At Apogee Behavioral Medicine, we help patients across North Carolina navigate the complex relationship between mental and physical health. Below, we’ll break down the most common shortness of breath causes, how anxiety plays a role, and when it’s time to speak with a professional.

Is Shortness of Breath a Physical Symptom of Anxiety?

Yes, it absolutely can be. In fact, shortness of breath is a common physical symptom of anxiety, especially during panic attacks or periods of high stress. When the body perceives a threat—real or imagined—it enters “fight or flight” mode. This triggers rapid, shallow breathing, making you feel like you can’t catch your breath. Other physical symptoms of anxiety that often accompany shortness of breath include:

• Racing heart or palpitations

• Chest tightness or pain

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Sweating or chills

• Nausea or upset stomach

• Tingling in the hands or feet

If your shortness of breath comes and goes with feelings of stress, fear, or worry, it may be anxiety-related.

How to Tell if Shortness of Breath Is from Anxiety

It’s not always easy to know what’s going on, but there are a few signs that your breathing troubles might be linked to anxiety. If your shortness of breath tends to appear during stressful situations or moments of emotional distress, this could be a strong indicator. You may also notice that your breathing becomes more difficult during these times but improves with calming techniques like deep breathing or grounding exercises. If your doctor has ruled out any underlying medical causes, and you’ve experienced panic attacks or generalized anxiety in the past, it’s worth considering anxiety as a contributing factor. Additional symptoms such as persistent worry, muscle tension, or restlessness can further support this connection.

You don’t need to figure this out on your own. A mental health professional can help you get clarity and relief.

Other Common Causes of Shortness of Breath

While anxiety is a frequent culprit, shortness of breath causes can range from mild to serious. Other potential medical conditions to consider include:

• Asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

• Heart conditions, such as arrhythmia or heart failure

• Respiratory infections like pneumonia or COVID-19

• Allergic reactions

• Anemia

• Pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lung)

If your shortness of breath is new, persistent, or worsening—especially when paired with chest pain, fainting, or bluish lips—seek immediate medical attention.

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Don’t Ignore What Your Body Is Telling You

When your breathing doesn’t feel right, it’s a signal from your body that something needs attention. For some, it’s a sign of an underlying medical condition. For others, it’s a somatic response to emotional distress. Either way, it’s important not to brush it off or try to “push through it” alone. Early intervention leads to better outcomes and less stress in the long run. Anxiety-related shortness of breath is treatable—and often highly responsive to the right combination of therapy, coping strategies, and support. Whether you’re struggling with generalized anxiety, panic attacks, or stress-related physical symptoms, our compassionate team at Apogee can help you build tools for lasting relief.

When to Seek Help for Shortness of Breath

Whether your symptoms are tied to anxiety or something else, they should never be ignored. Persistent or severe shortness of breath deserves professional attention. At Apogee Behavioral Medicine, our clinicians specialize in identifying the root cause of your symptoms and building personalized treatment plans that support both mind and body. We offer counseling and therapy services and telehealth appointments to ensure support is always within reach.

You Deserve to Breathe Easy Again

Struggling with anxiety can feel overwhelming, especially when it affects your body in physical ways. But you don’t have to keep wondering what if. If you’re unsure how to tell if it’s from anxiety or another cause, our team is here to help you find answers and relief. Let Apogee Behavioral Medicine support you on your path to healing, clarity, and better breathing. Book an appointment today →