miserable, but they say nothing is wrong

[darryl1975]

This has been an issue for a few years. My symptoms seem to be all over the place. I have been tested like crazy.. Everything from a heart cath to blood work. Multiple CT scans and xrays. I am told that they can find nothing, but I am miserable all the time. I feel a constant pressure and discomfort in my sternum. It goes all the way up to my sinus. The sternum is by far the worst pain. Eating does not affect it at all. Moving a certain way or stretching sometimes does. I have fluttering in my sternum. Heart palpitations. I assume, but have been told they are not an issue. I am exerted very easily. Takes very little to get me winded. I always feel like I cannot get a deep enough breath. I have been diagnosed with anxiety/panic attacks. I am on zoloft daily and ativan as needed. It seems to be well under control now. Have not had a panic attack on 5-6 months now, but these esophageal symptoms have gotten no better. Heart cath was good. Just recently had an upper endoscopy, all was good. I did have a nissen fundoplication for reflux. My reflux is 100% gone. I can eat things that I haven't for years. It is wonderful, but it did not make these symptoms better or worse. I just want to feel good again. Any thoughts?

[darryl1975]

Thank you... I just don't know what to do.. I am miserable all the time. For the last couple of days, my palpitations have increased significantly. Probably 15-20 a day now. I have had throat pain when breathing deep for quite a while as well.. This has also been a great deal worse lately. Just at my wits end with this.

[Paderla Anitha, DNB]

Hi, as all the tests done are normal, it's unlikely that there is an organic cause for your symptoms. Your symptoms of hyperventilation, palpitations and discomfort could be attributed to Chronic Hyperventilation Syndrome. It is characterized by hyperventilation for no apparent reason, frequent yawning, palpitations, dizziness, sweating, fainting, depression, and cold sweats. Please discuss this with your doctor when you happen to meet him next time. In the meantime you could practice breathing exercises and good relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation. Regards.