What Causes Persistent Chest Tightness, Dizziness And Fatigue?

Posted on Thu, 28 Jul 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 28 Jul 2016 Answered on

Wed, 17 Aug 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi, my 20 year old son is having chest tightness, dizziness, fatigue for about 6 months now. He has been to our GP who did a physical and EKG, told him he was fine. But it keeps happening, and he is freaking out about it, thinking he's having a heart attack, which obviously he's not. We thought maybe panic attacks, but they happen at any time...when he's at home having a relaxed dinner, out with friends, things that wouldn't necessarily cause anxiety. We want to make an appointment with a dr. who will take this seriously, what type of dr. do you recommend?

Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (6 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Consultation

Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thanks for your question.

What you describe is definitely panic disorder. Panic attacks can happen anywhere at any time, not only in anxiety-provoking situations. He is at the exact age panic disorder typically starts. I would consult a psychiatrist. This is very treatable with an SSRI antidepressant such as Lexapro. He will get better!

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