Based on the history and extensive normal investigations, this presentation is most consistent with panic disorder / anxiety disorder with prominent autonomic (somatic) symptoms, possibly worsened by alcohol, gastric reflux, and health anxiety.
Features supporting this:
• Sudden episodic onset, feeling of impending fainting/death
• Chest tightness, neck discomfort, tremors, dizziness, nausea
• Normal ECG, ECHO, MRI brain, labs, imaging
• Worsening after alcohol
• Partial / slow response to psychiatric medicines (needs time & dose optimization)
No evidence currently suggests a cardiac, neurological, or metabolic cause.
Next Steps
1. Continue psychiatric treatment – antidepressants (like Vortioxetine/Desvenlafaxine) need 6–8 weeks for full effect; do not stop early.
2. Add Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – very important for panic disorder.
3. Avoid alcohol completely (major trigger).
4. Screen for GERD & panic overlap – trial of PPI + lifestyle changes if not already done.
5. If symptoms persist:
•
Thyroid profile (
TSH, FT4)
• Plasma metanephrines only if attacks are very episodic with sweating/palpitations (low suspicion)
Health Tips
• Panic attacks are distressing but not dangerous
• Repeated tests will increase anxiety, not relief
• Regular sleep, caffeine reduction, breathing exercises help
• Sudden chest pain with collapse, true loss of consciousness, or neurological deficit → ER immediately
Overall prognosis is good with consistent treatment.