How are anxiety, emotional and sleep problems treated?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 22 years old, and the problem I am facing is that my heart has been beating fast (not super fast), but definitely faster than normal, for many days, on and off. I have been experiencing overthinking at its peak, feeling anxious sometimes, being super emotional, and having a very bad sleep schedule; I can barely sleep at night.

These symptoms have been occurring on and off for a few years now, and I also have asthma. When my heart is already beating faster, and for example, if I hear loud noises or even watch a video at double speed, it will beat even faster, which is weird. Also, my overthinking and sensitivity have not been as bad before as they are now.

Previously, I have experienced the same things; it is kind of on and off. I do not exactly know what triggers it. Also, loud noises make my heart beat faster, as if I ran. I do not know if that is normal and happens with everyone, but it happens with me. Not only when someone is loud to me, but with any loud noise in general.

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

We welcome you to icliniq family.

I appreciate the confidence you place in me for your healthcare consultation.

I understand your concern.

You may have an anxiety disorder. There is non-pharmacological management for it. You should try to follow the guidelines below to deal with it. It will help you.

You should exercise daily for 30 to 45 minutes, such as going for a walk at least.
You should meditate for 20 minutes daily. Just sit in one place in a comfortable position and try to concentrate on your normal breathing. Do not stop or force yourself to stop your thoughts; just let them be. It will relax you.
You should eat healthy, home-cooked foods and avoid junk foods.
You must drink enough water.
You should spend quality time with friends and family daily, or do video calls if you are living away from your family.
You should spend time on creative hobbies like reading good books, writing journals, painting, drawing, and learning new skills, languages, or musical instruments.
You should get seven to eight hours of sleep daily.
You must avoid tobacco, alcohol, or any substance abuse.
Live your life; do not just spend it.
Be bold and confident.

The investigations to be performed include complete blood count (CBC), thyroid profile, vitamin B12 level, vitamin D3 level, random blood sugar (RBS), and electrocardiogram (ECG).

If you still have symptoms that persist after following the advice for four to six weeks, then you need to start medications for a short duration.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer.

For further queries, you can consult me at icliniq.

Thank you.