How to differentiate CAD from anxiety disorder?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been suffering from shallow breathing for a couple of weeks. I also have high cholesterol and a bad anxiety disorder. After a panic attack, I went to the doctor, and they did the oxygen measuring EKG and chest X-ray, and everything looked fine. My question is, should I still inquire for more tests or just believe them that it is anxiety-related? I read that coronary artery disease cannot be seen on a chest X-ray, and now I am worried and confused. Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

If ECG (electrocardiogram) and chest X-ray were normal, there is no acute issue. Yes, for risk stratification, you should check your fasting lipid profile, HbA1c, and fasting blood sugar levels. Keep blood pressure in control. Sleep well and eat a Mediterranean diet to decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Daily exercise and weight reduction are also necessary. If you are not taking any lipid-lowering medicine, then there is no need to take LDL levels. Only diet, exercise, and weight management will help.

I hope this helps. Thank you and take care.