Can anxiety cause palpitations?

Question

Hello doctor,

Earlier this year, I experienced an episode of severe palpitations, after which I underwent an ECG, 2D echocardiogram, stress test, and troponin test. All results were normal. I have been experiencing intermittent chest, neck, and back pain for the past two years. The doctor prescribed Nebivolol 5 mg, which he recently reduced to 2.5 mg. Both cardiologists I consulted ruled out the possibility of a cardiac problem. I tend to be prone to anxiety and often fear that I may die from a heart attack. My thoughts about death have increased over the past two weeks. My resting pulse rate seems to be between 55 and 65 bpm and does not rise above 80 bpm, even while walking. The chest, neck, and back pain still persist. At times, I feel dizzy, weak, and occasionally short of breath.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Anxiety is widespread among healthy young adults these days. Most often, palpitations are not a result of a heart problem. I usually advise my patients to engage in exercises like yoga or deep breathing techniques. Getting adequate sleep—around six to seven hours—while avoiding coffee, alcohol, and smoking will help improve your situation. If you stick to these changes, you should see improvement in four to six weeks. If you do not feel better, you may need to consult a psychologist.

Best regards.