Feb. 09, 2010




















   

Q:
I’m a 17-year-old female. I tend to feel sick often with headaches and a weird feeling in my chest and I get worried about stuff really quickly. Sometimes I feel like I’m trapped or have to leave the room for a while. What can I do to help these feelings go away?
   
A:
Although headaches and chest pain have multiple causes, in association with being ‘worried’ and ‘feeling trapped,’ it is likely that they are symptoms of anxiety.

Anxiety is common in both teens and adults. When someone has an anxiety ‘attack,’ they can have symptoms including shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, shaking, headache, palpitations (heart pounding), stomach pain, diarrhea, sweating or feeling cold, and feelings of losing control. Another important part of anxiety is the sense of fear and worry about both physical and emotional parts of life.

There are many causes of anxiety. Often stress causes anxiety, whether it is one specific event or just many generalized things. Teens often express anxiety about school, their future, or events at home with family and friends.

The most important thing for you is to see your doctor and tell him/her about your symptoms. The doctor can then decide if any tests need to be performed in order to rule out any other medical causes for your symptoms. After these tests are done, then you can discuss together possible causes for nervousness or anxiety in your life and ways to make them less severe. Treatment for anxiety often includes various relaxation techniques and, in some cases, medication. Being comfortable with ‘you’ is essential for general well-being, so talk to your doctor today.

You're not alone. Take a look at a few of the questions related to this topic that other teens have asked us.

  • How can I stop panic attacks?
  • I always have a weird feeling that something bad is going to happen. What is wrong with me?
  • I have been having panic attacks. What can I do to control the attacks?


    Posted 12-30-08

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    As a reminder, this information should not be relied on as medical advice and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Please read our full .

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    Feb. 09, 2010
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