How Panic Attacks Affect Blood Sugar, Blood Pressure, and Liver Function

Panic Disorder and Health Examination Values

Can physician-induced panic lead to elevated test values such as blood sugar, blood pressure, liver function, and triglycerides? Thank you.

stevelin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/05/16

Dr. Zhang Jiafen reply Psychiatry

Hello, panic disorder is generally not directly related to common modern ailments known as "the three highs" (high blood lipids, high blood sugar, etc.).
However, panic disorder may lead to changes in lifestyle, such as overeating when feeling down or experiencing poor sleep quality, which can affect physical health.
This illustrates the close relationship between physical and mental conditions, often referred to as psychosomatic disorders.
Therefore, if you have concerns about the aforementioned issues, it is advisable to consider lifestyle changes and seek professional medical assistance to enhance your overall physical and mental well-being.
Wishing you peace and happiness.

Reply Date: 2013/05/16

More Info

Panic attacks can indeed have a significant impact on various physiological parameters, including blood sugar levels, blood pressure, liver function, and lipid profiles. Understanding these effects is crucial for managing health, especially for individuals who experience anxiety or panic disorders.

Blood Sugar Levels
During a panic attack, the body enters a state of heightened arousal, often referred to as the "fight or flight" response. This response is mediated by the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones can lead to an increase in blood sugar levels as the body prepares for immediate physical activity. The liver releases glucose into the bloodstream to provide energy for muscles, which can result in elevated blood sugar levels. For individuals who are already predisposed to insulin resistance or have prediabetes, this temporary spike can be concerning and may contribute to longer-term issues if panic attacks are frequent.

Blood Pressure
Panic attacks are also associated with an increase in blood pressure. The release of adrenaline causes the heart to beat faster and the blood vessels to constrict, leading to a rise in blood pressure. This can be particularly problematic for individuals with pre-existing hypertension or cardiovascular issues. Elevated blood pressure during panic attacks is usually temporary; however, chronic anxiety can lead to sustained high blood pressure over time, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Liver Function
The liver plays a critical role in metabolizing stress hormones and managing blood sugar levels. During a panic attack, the liver may be overworked due to the increased demand for glucose production and the need to process elevated levels of stress hormones. This can lead to temporary changes in liver function tests, such as elevated levels of liver enzymes (e.g., ALT and AST). While these changes are often reversible, repeated episodes of panic attacks may contribute to chronic stress on the liver, potentially leading to longer-term liver dysfunction if not managed appropriately.

Lipid Profiles
Panic attacks can also influence lipid metabolism. Stress and anxiety can lead to changes in eating behaviors, often resulting in increased consumption of high-fat and high-sugar foods as a coping mechanism. This can contribute to elevated levels of triglycerides and cholesterol in the blood. Additionally, the hormonal changes associated with stress can affect how the body processes fats, potentially leading to dyslipidemia over time.

Conclusion
In summary, panic attacks can lead to temporary increases in blood sugar, blood pressure, liver enzyme levels, and alterations in lipid profiles. For individuals experiencing panic attacks, it is essential to address both the psychological and physiological aspects of their health. Regular monitoring of these parameters, along with lifestyle modifications such as stress management techniques, exercise, and a balanced diet, can help mitigate the adverse effects of panic attacks on overall health.

If you or someone you know is experiencing frequent panic attacks, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation and management plan. This may include therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes aimed at reducing anxiety and its physiological impacts.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Anxiety's Impact on Health

Hello Doctor: I have anxiety issues, and according to my psychiatrist, I have what is known as panic disorder, which often causes chest pain, hyperventilation, and difficulty breathing. Yesterday, I experienced sudden, unbearable chest pain and felt like I couldn't get enoug...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, regarding your anxiety issue, based on your description, it seems to be "hyperventilation syndrome," which refers to excessive breathing that leads to the removal of carbon dioxide, causing numbness in the hands and feet. You can try breathing into a paper bag to...

Managing Panic Disorder Medications: Understanding Low Blood Sugar Risks

Due to issues with panic disorder, I am currently taking the following medications: 1. Anxiolytic: half a tablet with breakfast and lunch, and one tablet with dinner. 2. Lyrica: half a tablet before bedtime. Since starting these medications, I have experienced several episodes re...

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry
Hello Mr. Liu: Both Anbang and Liyou medications do not cause hypoglycemia. I wonder if you are taking any antidiabetic medications? If so, it may be necessary to discuss potential adjustments with your physician. Panic attacks generally do not improve with food intake, so if you...

Managing Panic Disorder and Hypertension: Insights and Strategies for Relief

Hello, Doctor. I have been taking medication for panic disorder (Xanax 0.5mg) for nearly twenty years, and I also have hypertension, which I manage with medication (Micardis/Concor). Whenever I experience a panic attack, my blood pressure spikes to a systolic pressure of 140-160 ...

Dr. Wu Zongying reply Family Medicine
Hello: There are many factors that can affect high blood pressure. The prevalence of hypertension is higher among modern individuals, primarily due to lifestyle factors such as stress and tension, which can lead to increased secretion of adrenaline in the endocrine system, result...

Understanding Anxiety and Its Impact on Blood Pressure: A Guide

Hello, Doctor: I often feel inexplicably anxious, with a rapid heartbeat and a sensation of shortness of breath. Whenever this happens, my blood pressure tends to rise, with a recorded high of 140/105. I previously had an electrocardiogram, and the report was normal. My usual blo...

Dr. Li Dong'an reply Internal Medicine
Hello Chris: 1. Hypertension is defined as a systolic blood pressure of ≥140 mmHg or a diastolic blood pressure of ≥90 mmHg. However, it must be measured at least three times within two weeks, and the measurements should be taken under conditions of no stress (such as tension, an...