Primary care cardiology consultants The blog Is it anxiety or a heart problem?
Research shows that approximately 11 percent of the population suffers from generalized anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. Anxiety can feel like a general but low-level feeling of discomfort, or it can come and go during moments of stress. For some, anxiety is accompanied by panic attacks, events that can closely mimic the symptoms of a heart attack.
Because anxiety can be accompanied by a rapid heart rate, abnormal heart rate, dizziness, and chest pain, many people wonder if they are experiencing anxiety, a heart attack, or if the symptoms indicate an underlying heart problem. The question is what comes first: anxiety or a rapid heartbeat? Here we discuss some clues that may indicate that the heart is the main cause of symptoms.
- Both anxiety and the beating heart itself can lead to abnormal heart rhythms. The difference is that when extra heartbeats in the upper and lower chambers are the cause of the abnormal rhythm, symptoms may feel like an initial jump or loud pounding, followed by a racing heart. When fear is the trigger, the heart rate typically increases steadily rather than suddenly.
- Symptom patterns can also provide valid clues as to the origin of an abnormal heart rhythm. Most people can recognize the pattern of their beating heart when their heart races during a moment of stress or anxiety, or when the rapid heart rate or palpitations occur "out of the blue." In many cases, the anxiety associated with palpitations is a clear indication that the heart is the main problem.
- Secondary symptoms. Abnormal heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation, if left untreated, can eventually weaken the heart. This can lead to secondary symptoms such as swelling in the feet, legs and abdomen. Swelling can make it difficult to breathe when you lie flat. An anxiety-related rapid heart rate does not cause swelling and the symptoms that come with it.
Get a clear picture of the heart rhythm and heart rate
Heart health and anxiety are linked. Each can influence the other. The best way to get a clear picture of the heart rhythm and heart rate is to monitor the heart over a period of time. This can be done with a heart monitor. A heart monitor is a small device that records the heart rhythm day and night or during active complaints. By recording the heart rhythm over several days or weeks, a doctor can accurately determine which comes first: anxiety or abnormal heart rate.
Do you have questions about heart complaints? Contact Premier Cardiology Consultants at 516-437-5600 for assistance.
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