Looking for Help

[g_redden]

History:
I am 37 years old, 6'1" about 183 lbs, non-smoker, social drinker. My BP runs between 115/75 and 135/90. I was dx about 10 years ago with seasonal asthma and until recently rarely needed an inhaler. I must note that I think I am an anxious person. I think my pulse is fast a time but resting pulse is below 80. No one in my immediate family has died before the age of 60. High BP and mitral valve run in the family.
Issues:
Start about 12 weeks ago, I started having all of the following symptoms at different times. Lightheadedness/dizziness, chest pressure/light pain behind sternum that sometimes radiates around my ribs (the pressure/pain feels close to the skin), pressure between shoulder blades, SOA/labored breathing, the sensation that something is in my lungs and throat that I need to cough up, palpitations, I feel winded when going up steps or bending over, neck seems tight, and feels like heart is beating hard.  I typically do not have any symptoms at night and I usually feel good in the morning.  Symptoms usually start occurring within 30 minutes of getting out of bed.  I have trouble sleeping from time to time. These symptoms started about the time I found out my mother-in-law  that cares for my kids had to have triple bypass.
Testing & Treatment
I have seen my PCP several times. First he said asthma and prescribed the Advair inhaler, which I'm not sure if it helps or not. I went back because issues persisted and he said that I don't have any risk factors and that it's most likely anxiety but I got a chest xray that was read as normal. About 1 month later I went in for my work paid health screening that included CBC, CM7 and TSH.  All blood test were normal. Two weeks ago I called for an appointment because things were no better. He ordered a echo and holter and I have an appointment to see his this week. I know the echo is normal.
Concerns:
Is this or could it be related to anxiety, silent reflux, or something more serious?   I've always been concern about something happening (cancer, heart attack) that could have been prevented. I feel like I'm going crazy.
Treatment:
I have started taking a multivitamin and adding Magnesium . I just ordered a lavender based pill called CalmAid and relaxing teas. I really don't want to go on anxiety medication.

[RubyWitch]

Since these symptoms all began when you found out about your MIL's need for major surgery, it would be easy to say they are related to anxiety. But you have a lot of symptoms that are not normally considered anxiety based. (Triggered by anxiety)

While your PCP seems to be trying to help you, I have real issues with doctors who end a sentence with "it's most likely anxiety."
The diagnosis of anxiety should never be made until all medical tests have been done and anxiety is the only card left on the table.

You have listed, among other issues:
Lightheadedness/dizziness, chest pressure/light pain behind sternum that sometimes radiates around my ribs (the pressure/pain feels close to the skin), pressure between shoulder blades, SOA/labored breathing, the sensation that something is in my lungs and throat that I need to cough up, palpitations, I feel winded when going up steps or bending over, neck seems tight, and feels like heart is beating hard...............

I personally believe you should be seen by a cardiologist, who may possibly also want you checked out by a pulmonary doctor. Your SOB/labored breathing, dizziness, winded walking up stairs or bending over COULD be either a cardiac or pulmonary issue. While the echo will show abnormalities, an echo is much more accurate, in my humble opinion when combined with a stress test. That will give the cardiologist a much broader picture of how your heart is functioning. Routine blood work and a chest X-ray (even wearing a Holter) simply will not rule in or out many of your symptoms.

I realize I have probably scared you to death, but I am NOT saying you have anything wrong with your heart or your lungs. I am saying that many of your symptoms do not fit with the criteria for a simple diagnosis of anxiety. Bit we are all different and these symptoms may be how YOUR body reacts to stress/anxiety.

You have a lot on your plate right now that would cause anxiety for anyone, but I've always believed it is better to be safe than sorry. If for no other reason, do it for your kids.

I wish you the best and hope you'll keep us updated.
RubyWitch  

[g_redden]

Also to note, I am able to push move 1/3 acre without any issues.  I have continued to workout at the gym.  I typically spend about 30 minutes on an elliptical trainer and maintain a heart rate of over 120 bpm.  From time to time, I'm a little light headed after working out.