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Richmond Hill, NY
A 34-year-old female asked:

Can an anxiety attack cause you to cough to the point that you are gasping for air? symptoms are, rapid heart beat, difficulty breathing.

1 doctor answer5 doctors weighed in
Dr. Pamela Pappas
Psychiatry 44 years experience
Yes it can: Yes, anxiety attacks can make you gasp for air ; have rapid pulse. However, you also need a medical evaluation for these issues since asthma and other causes can result in similar outcomes. Panic attacks can cause all kinds of physical symptoms -- but please don't jump to that explanation without complete workup. If it's indeed anxiety, please know there are excellent treatments!
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Last updated Jan 27, 2014

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