How can one address anxiety and heart health?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 29 years old, and I tend to overthink and worry a lot. Over the past three months, I have had 10 ECGs, all of which have come back to normal. I have been searching online, and I have read that an EF above 70% can be dangerous, which is causing me a lot of worry. I also struggle with anxiety and depression, and I am stressed about this. Please help me understand if everything is okay. My ECG and echocardiogram results today were normal.

Today, I had an echocardiogram, and everything was normal except for my EF percentage, which is 76%. Is this okay?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

It is very reassuring that both your ECG and echocardiogram results are normal, especially considering you have had multiple ECGs, all of which have been normal.

An ejection fraction (a measurement of the percentage of blood the heart pumps out with each beat, indicating heart function and health) of 76% is excellent and indicates that your heart is functioning well. While a high EF can sometimes be associated with certain conditions, if your echocardiogram is otherwise normal, there is no cause for concern.

I understand that reading information online can make you anxious, but it is important to remember that Google often provides incomplete or misleading details. It is always best to rely on your doctor’s interpretation of your results rather than online sources.

It is also great that you are recognizing your anxiety and depression. Overthinking, constant worry, and health anxiety can have a significant impact on both your mental and physical well-being, sometimes amplifying symptoms like palpitations or chest discomfort—despite having a healthy heart.

I recommend discussing your ECG and echocardiogram results in detail with your doctor and sharing any symptoms you have been experiencing, so they can provide the best advice tailored to your situation.

Lastly, trust the results of your tests, focus on addressing your anxiety, limit Google searches for medical information, and always consult a physician if you have ongoing concerns.

I hope this answers your query.

Please let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

If there are no other abnormalities in your echocardiogram, then an ejection fraction of 76% is completely normal. There is no need to worry.

I have also reviewed your ECG, and it appears normal as well.

I would recommend focusing on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which includes regular exercise and a heart-healthy diet.

Remember, I am always here to help if you have any further questions or need medical advice.

I hope this answers your query.

Please feel free to reach out if you need further assistance.

Thank you.

Answer 3

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

We are here to help and address any concerns you have.

If your echocardiogram did not show any other issues, then an ejection fraction of 76% is perfectly normal.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy occurs when the heart muscle becomes thicker than usual. This can be associated with genetic conditions, untreated high blood pressure, or valve problems. However, if you had hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, your echocardiogram would show thickened heart walls and smaller heart chambers. Since your echocardiogram did not show these signs, and your ECG is normal, there is no indication of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

So, to reassure you, an EF of 76% is absolutely fine.

Please feel free to reach out if you have any more questions. I am happy to help.

I hope this answers your query.

Please feel free to reach out if you need further assistance.

Thank you.

Answer 4

Hello,

You are always welcome! I am glad I could help, and I hope the advice brings you some reassurance. Wishing you a healthy and happy life ahead!

Please feel free to reach out if you need further assistance.

Thank you.