Bigg Boss 16 contestant Ankit Gupta recently opened up about suffering from an emergency, following which he had to be hospitalised. Revealing that he has currently stopped eating meat, Gupta told Farah Khan on her cooking show, “I had a gastric and panic attack because of which I was hospitalised.”
Revealing the symptoms he experienced, the 36-year-old continued: “During a panic attack, there is breathlessness, palpitations, and blood pressure shoots up. Aisa laga kabhi bhi saans aana bandh ho jayegi. (It feels like I won’t be able to breathe at any moment).”
He added that he now follows a strict diet, as a result of which he looks leaner. “Every time, I have to click a photo of what I am eating or drinking. I have to share it,” he said.
Why do gastric and panic attack scenarios happen?
Dr Narander Singla, lead consultant, internal medicine, CK Birla Hospital®, Delhi, said gastric issues and panic attacks, though different in origin, can produce similar symptoms like chest tightness, palpitations, bloating, and breathlessness, often making it difficult to distinguish between the two. “Gastric discomfort typically arises from indigestion, acid reflux, or gas buildup, which can irritate the diaphragm and even the vagus nerve, causing a fluttering heart or unease. Common triggers include overeating, spicy or fatty foods, eating too quickly, or lying down immediately after meals,” said Dr Singla.
Panic attacks can happen (Photo: Freepik)
Panic attacks are sudden episodes of intense anxiety or fear, often triggered by stress, trauma, or underlying mental health conditions. “They can mimic heart problems, leading to chest pain, a racing heartbeat, dizziness, and a sense of impending doom,” said Dr Singla.
It’s important to observe when symptoms occur, after meals, during stressful moments, or randomly. “Note accompanying signs such as bloating, belching (suggesting gastric causes), or overwhelming fear and hyperventilation (indicating a panic response). Keeping a symptom diary can help your doctor differentiate the cause,” said Dr Singla.
If symptoms are frequent, severe, or interfering with daily life, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis. “Managing triggers through dietary changes, stress reduction, and timely medical intervention can significantly improve both gastric and panic-related symptoms,” said Dr Singla.
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DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
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