What you describe sounds very much like anxiety-related breathing difficulties, especially since your pulmonologist confirmed your airways are healthy. Anxiety can create a cycle - the more you notice your breathing, the more tense you feel, which makes the sensation worse. As a NEET aspirant, high stress and pressure can intensify this.

Hi, I understand how worrying it must feel to experience breathlessness again, especially when your doctor has already assured you that your lungs are healthy. This can leave you confused and anxious, but when the body is under stress, it can react in ways that feel very physical, even if nothing is wrong with the organs themselves. In anxiety, the chest muscles often tighten and breathing becomes shallow, which tricks the brain into thinking you’re not getting enough air. That makes you focus on your breathing even more, creating a cycle of discomfort. Since you’re a NEET aspirant, it makes sense that the pressure, long study hours, and constant worry about performance may be triggering these stress responses. This is something you can manage. Calming techniques like slow breathing (inhale through your nose for 4 counts, hold for 2, exhale gently through your mouth for 6) can help break the cycle in the moment. Taking regular breaks, doing light exercise or stretching, and talking out your stress instead of holding it in are also very effective. If you find that the anxiety and breathlessness continue, it would be very helpful to consult with a psychologist, who can guide you through structured methods like CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy). Many students preparing for competitive exams experience similarly and with the right tools, you can regain your calm and focus without losing valuable study time.

Hi Thanks for reaching out. If you are having breathing difficulty consult a psychiatrist. It is necessary to know what is causing anxiety. Based on what you have mentioned I suggest you consult a psychiatrist and explain about breathing difficulty. Also consult a psychologist for counselling sessions. Consult a psychiatrist first and then consult a psychologist for counselling sessions.

Kindly connect with psychotherapist

Hi

What you’re describing sounds really exhausting, especially with the pressure of being a NEET aspirant. It makes sense that the anxiety is showing up through your body, sometimes our minds feel overwhelmed, and instead of just racing thoughts, it spills over into physical symptoms like shortness of breath, chest tightness, or even panic-like sensations.. The fact that your pulmonologist already ruled out an airway problem is actually reassuring. It means your body is physically capable of breathing, but your anxiety is “tricking” you into feeling like you can’t get enough air. This happens because when we’re anxious, the body activates its fright-or-flight system, breathing becomes shallow and rapid, muscles tense, and the brain interprets it as “I can’t breathe.” That loop increases the anxiety.. Here are a few things you can try: Breathing reset: Place one hand on your chest and the other on your stomach. Try to make your stomach rise more than your chest as you slowly inhale through your nose for 4 counts, hold for 2, then exhale through your mouth for 6 counts. This helps remind your body that it is getting enough air.. Grounding: When you feel panic starting, look around and name 5 things you can see, 4 you can touch, 3 you can hear, 2 you can smell, and 1 you can taste. It pulls you back from the spiral. Routine for your brain: Because NEET prep can be very high-pressure, make space for even short breaks, stretching, a walk, journaling, or a few minutes of mindfulness. These aren’t wasted time; they actually recharge focus.. Sleep and caffeine: Lack of rest and too much caffeine (common during exam prep) can worsen both anxiety and breathing issues. Be mindful of that cycle.

Hi there, I can understand how unsettling it must be to feel short of breath, especially when you’ve already been through panic attacks and anxiety. Since your pulmonologist has confirmed that your airways are fine, these symptoms are most likely linked to anxiety rather than a physical lung problem. Anxiety can sometimes trick the body into “feeling” like it’s not getting enough air, especially at night or during stressful times. Try to: • Practice slow, deep breathing (inhale through your nose, exhale longer through your mouth). • Maintain a regular sleep schedule and avoid screen time just before bed. • Include some light exercise or yoga/meditation during the day to calm your system. • Remind yourself that these episodes, while scary, are not dangerous if medical causes are ruled out. Since you’re a NEET aspirant, stress can be high, so being kind to yourself, taking short breaks, and having a routine for study and relaxation can help. If your symptoms get very frequent or overwhelming, do reach out to a mental health professional online for additional support.

Hello, NEET aspirants, As you shared very correctly that This panic attacks and anxious thoughts are psychological. Pranayam may help with consistency and also exercise for healthy mindset and permanent solution solution. Consult a psychologist so that you can invest your time and energy to be a good doctor.

Start therapy ASAP You will be fine

Thank you for sharing your concern. Since your pulmonologist has already confirmed that your airways are fine, it is very likely that the breathing difficulty is connected to anxiety. Anxiety can sometimes create a cycle—the more you focus on your breath, the more tense you feel, which makes the sensation stronger. This is especially common during exam preparation when stress levels are high.

Consult a psychologist

Hi, It sounds like you've been experiencing recurring anxiety and panic attacks that have affected your breathing, especially during the nights. Even though your pulmonologist has reassured you that your airway is fine, these breathing difficulties are likely related to anxiety and stress. Anxiety can cause physical symptoms like shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, and feeling of tightness, which can sometimes worsen over time if not addressed. Given that you're also preparing for NEET, the pressure and worries about your future can contribute to these symptoms. It’s important to try calming techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness to manage immediate anxiety. However, if the breathing difficulties persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult a mental health professional or a doctor again to rule out any other causes and to get support for managing anxiety effectively. Remember, seeking help and taking care of your mental health is crucial during stressful times.

It sounds like your breathing issues are mainly linked to anxiety rather than any lung problem, since your pulmonologist confirmed your airway is fine. Stress from being a NEET aspirant may be worsening your panic and breathlessness. Try practicing deep breathing, meditation, or short relaxation breaks daily. Keeping a healthy sleep and study routine can also reduce symptoms. If anxiety continues, consulting a mental health professional will help.