Anxiety and Heart Health: Your Questions Answered

Medication issues

I apologize, Director, I know I have a lot of questions.
I tend to overthink and get anxious easily.
I wake up in the morning worrying about heart problems.
Can anxiety really make someone feel like they have heart issues? If my heart rate is fast and all tests come back normal without finding a cause, can I be hospitalized for further examination? May I ask, Director, if taking a heart rhythm medication every morning could lead to withdrawal issues? The heart rhythm medication is short-acting, but sometimes when I take it once a day, I feel like there is still some effect the next day.
Is this due to my body’s constitution or is it a psychological effect? Also, Director, can taking heart rhythm medication sometimes make me feel cold, fatigued, or experience slight stabbing pains in my heart? Should I just ignore these symptoms? Thank you, Director, and I’m really sorry for all the questions!

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/17

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Anxiety can lead to many issues, and it can genuinely make a person feel like there is a problem with their heart.
Hospitalization for further examination may not be necessary, especially since all the required tests have already been completed.
It's unclear what additional procedures would be performed during hospitalization.
If you are taking antiarrhythmic medication, there shouldn't be any withdrawal issues, and the lingering effects the next day could be psychological.
As humans, it's natural to occasionally experience discomfort, such as feeling cold, fatigued, or having chest pain.
It's important not to overthink these sensations and scare yourself unnecessarily.
Please take care, and remember that Changhua Hospital is here to support you.

Reply Date: 2023/06/17

More Info

Anxiety can significantly impact both mental and physical health, particularly when it comes to heart health. Your concerns about heart issues stemming from anxiety are quite common. Many individuals who experience anxiety report symptoms that mimic heart problems, such as palpitations, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. This phenomenon is often referred to as "psychosomatic" symptoms, where psychological distress manifests as physical symptoms.

When you wake up in the morning and immediately start worrying about your heart, it can create a cycle of anxiety that exacerbates your symptoms. The body's stress response can lead to increased heart rate and heightened awareness of bodily sensations, which can make you feel as though there is something wrong with your heart, even when medical tests indicate otherwise. This is a classic example of how anxiety can distort our perception of health.

Regarding your question about hospitalization for further testing, it is essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider. If you feel that your anxiety is overwhelming and affecting your daily life, discussing the possibility of hospitalization for observation or further evaluation may be warranted. However, it is crucial to ensure that this decision is based on a comprehensive assessment of your mental and physical health.

As for the medication you mentioned, "心律錠" (which I assume refers to a type of medication for heart rhythm issues), it is important to understand how it works. If it is a short-acting medication, it may provide immediate relief from symptoms, but it is not uncommon for individuals to experience residual effects the following day, especially if they are particularly sensitive to medications. This can be influenced by individual metabolism, dosage, and psychological factors. If you feel that the medication is causing you to feel cold, fatigued, or experience unusual sensations, it is essential to discuss these side effects with your doctor. They may consider adjusting your dosage or switching to a different medication that may be better suited for you.

Regarding withdrawal symptoms, if you are taking a medication regularly, it is essential to follow your doctor's guidance on how to taper off or adjust your dosage. Stopping a medication suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms, but this largely depends on the specific medication and your body's response to it.

Lastly, the sensations you describe—feeling cold, tired, or experiencing sharp pains—could be related to anxiety itself. Anxiety can lead to muscle tension and changes in blood flow, which may cause discomfort. However, it is always best to err on the side of caution and discuss any new or worsening symptoms with your healthcare provider.

In summary, anxiety can indeed create a perception of heart problems, and it is essential to address both the psychological and physical aspects of your health. Regular communication with your healthcare provider, exploring therapeutic options such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and possibly medication management can help you manage your anxiety more effectively. Remember, you are not alone in this, and seeking help is a positive step toward regaining your health and peace of mind.

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