Is It Anxiety or a Heart Problem?

Studies suggest that approximately 11 percent of the population suffers from a general anxiety disorder at some point during their lifetime. Anxiety may be felt like a general but low sense of unease, or it may come and go in moments of stress. For some, anxiety involves panic attacks, events that can closely mimic the symptoms of a heart attack.

Because anxiety can coincide with rapid heart rate, abnormal heartbeats, lightheadedness, and chest pain, many people wonder if they are having anxiety, a heart attack, or if symptoms indicate an underlying heart problem. The question is, what comes first: anxiety or rapid heart rate? Here, we discuss some of the clues that may indicate that the heart is the root 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 abnormal rhythm, symptoms may feel like an initial skip or hard thumping beat followed by a racing heart. When anxiety is the trigger, heart rate typically increases steadily rather than suddenly.
Symptom pattern may also provide valid clues as to the origin of abnormal heart rhythm. Most people can identify the pattern of their beating heart, whether their heart started to race during a moment of stress or anxiety, or if the rapid heart rate or palpitations occurred “out of the blue.” In many cases, anxiety that follows palpitations is a straightforward clue that the heart is the primary issue.
Secondary symptoms. Abnormal heart rhythm such as atrial fibrillation, if not treated, can eventually weaken the heart. This can lead to secondary symptoms such as swelling in the feet, legs, and stomach. Swelling can make it difficult to breathe when lying down flat. Anxiety-related rapid heart rate does not cause swelling and the symptoms that go along with it.

Getting A Clear Picture Of Heart Rhythm And Rate

Cardiac health and anxiety are interrelated. Each can affect the other. The best way to get a clear picture of heart rhythm and rate is to monitor the heart for a period of time. This can be done with a heart monitor. A heart monitor is a small device that records heart rhythm day and night or during active symptoms. Capturing heart rhythm over several days or weeks, a doctor can accurately determine which comes first, anxiety or abnormal beats.

Do you have questions about cardiac symptoms? Contact Premier Cardiology Consultants at 516-437-5600 for assistance.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Chest Pain: Is it Ever Normal?

For most of us, it’s not so much the chest pain itself but what’s causing the discomfort that worries us. Our experts share insight regarding chest pain and when it might be time to worry.

Adjusting to Life with a Pacemaker

Once in place and functioning as programmed, a pacemaker can greatly improve your quality of life. Like all things new, however, there’s an adjustment period. Read our expert guidelines about living with a pacemaker.

Are Heart Palpitations Dangerous?

Are you wondering about that strange fluttering you feel in your chest occasionally? Does it seem like your heart is beating faster than normal? Should you be worried? Read what our cardiologists say about palpitations and what they might mean.

Am I at Risk for Hypertension?

Experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that about half of all Americans have high blood pressure (hypertension). So? Learn what your blood pressure may reveal about your health and why it matters.

What Can Be Learned from a Stress Test?

Your heart works differently at rest than it does when you’re under physical stress. Find out why your cardiologist may want to see how your heart handles a workout and what the results might say about your health.

When a Pacemaker Is Necessary

It’s understandable if you feel anxious about needing a pacemaker. But the lifesaving benefits of these small medical devices far outweigh their very minimal risks and relatively minor inconvenience. Learn more about pacemakers and how they work.