Why does my heart pound when I am worried?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am getting anxiety and panic attacks when I am worried or overthink. I had pounding and palpitation at that time. But, I am not feeling anything specific. I am going 20 minutes walk daily about 4 miles per hour and burning 200 calories. I lost around 11 lbs in the past three months. I have stopped taking chocolates, coke, red bull, etc., as well to help with weight loss. I have attached my CBC report here for your reference.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Based on your query and attached report (attachment removed to protect patient identity), my opinion is as follows:

The eosinophil count is mildly high, indicating a possible allergic reaction to the environment.
However, if you have not taken any antihelmintic and if there is a possible worm infection suspicion, then Albendazole, an antihelmintic tablet will be beneficial. Do discuss this with your doctor.
The WBC - white blood cell count is mildly elevated partly due to stress and also increased eosinophil.
A mild reduction in MCH (mean corpuscular hemoglobin) is noted, indicating possibly early iron deficiency anemia. Iron supplements or an iron-rich diet should be helpful.
Your hemoglobin is good. The RBC (red blood cell) count is mildly elevated with normal hemoglobin indicating early iron deficiency. Not to worry, it will get corrected with an iron-rich diet and supplements.
Based on your blood report, there is no reason for anxiety at present. It is normal to have pounding and palpitations during anxiety.
Try relaxation exercises, meditation, and sports like badminton, table tennis, etc., which involve both physical and mental involvement. It will be a good relaxation technique and calorie burner too.