Resolved question:
I am a 42 year old female suffering from panic and anxiety attacks for 7 years. I no longer get the attacks during the day.. but I have been waking up with severe heart palpitations most nights. Could this be caused by the anxiety or be cardiac related?
Submitted:
4 Days
Category:
Family Physician-GP
Hello,
Thank you for choosing DoctorSpring.
I have discussed your concern with our Cardiologist.
We would like to know some additional information from you so that I can provide my best learned opinion.
1. Do you know your current blood pressure (or range ?) are you on any medication
2. Is there any sweating of chest pain associated with these palpitations ?
3. How long does each episode last ? How does it resolve ?
4. Have you checked your Thyroid function status ?
5. Do you feel any skipped beat ? Is the palpitation regular or irregular ?
You can reply as a followup
Thank you
My blood pressure has been good. Usually 119/82 or so.. I wake up anywhere between 1 to 3 hours after falling asleep with a fast heart rate. Sometimes it feels like it's skipping, but mostly just going very fast.
The palpitations are most likely to be anxiety related considering your past history of panic attacks. But it is not prudent to attribute the symptoms to anxiety alone before and evaluation.
I would recommend a set tests (which can be easily done)
1. ECG
2. Thyroid function tests
3. Haemoglobin level
Based on the ECG finding you may require a couple more additional tests. (Holter and Echo). Let me assure you there is nothing to worry, but it just safe to get it done. Meanwhile you should take measures of reduce stress and anxiety if there is any. Exercise, yoga, meditation what ever works.
Avoid coffee and caffeinated drinks after 4:00 pm. Have an early light dinner and sleep well.
Hope this helps
Feel free to ask a followup.
Thank you