What should I do if anxiety causes a rapid heart rate?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have frequent recurring pains in my chest due to anxiety. I recently got a fitness watch and noticed that when I am experiencing this my heart rate goes way up. Normal for me is 65 to 70 when resting. When my chest starts hurting it has jumped as high as 135 to 140 when resting. Is this normal or should I make an appointment? I currently do not have a doctor.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concerns.

From what you mentioned, most probably you have panic disorder (one of the anxiety disorders). Let me know some more details:

1) Do you have changes in bowel habits, eating habits, or sleeping pattern?

2) Do you live a stressful life?

3) Do you feel anxious about minor issues?

4) Have you faced a traumatic event like the loss of a loved one recently?

5) Do you have tremors and/ or heat intolerance?

I suggest you the following:

1) Sertraline (Zoloft) 50 mg per day initially, then 75 mg per day after one week then maintenance 100 mg per day after another week.

2) You should involve in daily exercise.

3) Regular massage, yoga, acupuncture all could help.

4) Stay away from stress as much as possible. Try to develop relaxing techniques.

5) Follow up after six weeks.

Consult your specialist doctor, discuss with him or her and start taking the medicines with their consent. Please note that the medication takes four to six weeks to show a significant effect. Please provide me with the results of the thyroid test in order to exclude any thyroid disease.