Chest Pain from Anxiety? Discover the Causes and Natural Remedies to Relieve It

Among the many symptoms anxiety can cause, chest pain is certainly one of the most alarming. The reason is understandable: distinguishing between chest pain caused by anxiety and stress and that related to heart problems is not at all easy. And it's precisely this uncertainty that generates further worry, fueling a vicious cycle that can lead to full-blown panic attacks and intensify the feeling of tightness and discomfort.
But how can you tell if chest pain is due to anxiety? Fortunately, there are signs that can help us recognize its origin and, above all, strategies and natural remedies that can offer relief, promote relaxation, and help us regain emotional balance.
We discuss this purely for informational purposes, reminding readers that this article is not a substitute for medical advice, which should be promptly sought in the case of persistent symptoms.

Why Can Chest Pain Be Frightening?
Anxiety is a natural response of our body to situations perceived as stressful, threatening, or particularly demanding.
Under normal conditions, it helps us face danger and stay alert. However, when it becomes intense or prolonged, it can lead to physical manifestations that scare those who experience them. One of the most common and alarming symptoms is chest pain, on the right or left side, often accompanied by dizziness, tremors, sweating, and shortness of breath.

This combination of symptoms can generate additional tension and lead one to believe they are experiencing a heart problem, triggering a vicious cycle of anxiety that feeds itself and makes the symptoms even more intense.

How to Tell If Chest Pain Is Due to Anxiety or a Heart Problem
Understanding whether chest pain is due to anxiety or a heart issue is essential to approach the situation with greater awareness and calm.

When the pain is anxiety-related, it tends to appear suddenly, often during or right before a panic attack, and is perceived as pressure or heaviness in the center of the chest. Generally, this type of pain gradually subsides with relaxation and by returning to a state of calm. In other cases, anxiety can cause chronic muscle tension, with chest pain lasting several days, though still not directly linked to physical activity.

In contrast, heart-related chest pain:

• may be more intense;
• is localized and accompanied by a sensation of pressure that sometimes radiates to the left arm, shoulders, jaw, or back;
• may worsen with physical exertion;
• does not lessen with rest or deep breathing.

In these cases, it may be necessary to seek medical attention immediately.

Anxiety and Chest Pain: What Are the Typical Symptoms?
But how can we recognize chest pain caused by anxiety and stress? There are several symptoms we might experience:

·       Muscle tension. During an anxiety attack, the body goes into “alert mode,” triggering the fight-or-flight response that involves involuntary and prolonged muscle contraction, especially in the chest, neck, and shoulders. This tension can cause a dull, widespread chest pain, sometimes more intense with movement or deep breathing.

·       Shortness of breath. Anxiety alters the breathing rhythm, making it faster and shallower. This can give the sensation of not being able to take a full breath and creates a feeling of chest tightness. The perceived shortness of breath can be frightening and make the pain feel more severe than it actually is.

·       Palpitations. When we are anxious, heart rate increases to prepare the body for action. Palpitations, often felt as irregular or very strong heartbeats, can be accompanied by chest twinges and raise concerns about heart issues, even though in most cases they are harmless.

·       Heartburn and acid reflux. Anxiety can also affect the digestive system and cause a burning sensation behind the breastbone, heartburn, and acid reflux. These symptoms, located in the central chest area, are often mistaken for heart-related pain.

Remedies and Natural Oils to Relieve Chest Pain due to Anxiety
When symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations caused by anxiety appear, it’s important to pause and ask how to regain calm and balance.

• Psychological therapy. Going to therapy is without doubt one of the most effective ways to address the root causes of anxiety and learn how to manage it over time.
• Essential oils. Known for its calming and relaxing properties, lavender essential oil can be diffused or mixed with a carrier oil to massage the chest. Chamomile, on the other hand, has sedative effects that can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety symptoms.
• Natural oils with CBD. According to studies[1], CBD acts on the nervous system by regulating the stress response, helping reduce the hyperactivity typical of anxious states, improving sleep quality, and preventing potential panic attacks. Being a completely natural and well-tolerated product, it can be a concrete first step for those who want to start freeing themselves from anxiety and its physical manifestations gently and gradually.

Combined with daily practices such as regular physical activity and mindful breathing, these remedies can promote overall well-being and improve quality of life.

It is always advisable, however, to ask a professional to assess the most suitable approach for your needs, keeping in mind that every care plan should be personalized and based on the person’s overall well-being.