What are the symptoms of palpitations caused by anxiety, and are they serious?
Sep 15, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Xin
Introduction
In general, palpitations caused by anxiety are characterized by a subjective feeling of uncomfortable or rapid heartbeat, or a sensation of heart fluttering. If the palpitations are due to physiological reasons, dizziness, or anemia, they are usually not serious. However, if they result from arrhythmia, hyperthyroidism, or psychological factors, the condition may be more severe. In addition, palpitations can also occur in various diseases, such as heart failure.
Under normal circumstances, palpitations caused by anxiety refer to a subjective feeling of discomfort or rapid heartbeat. If the palpitations are due to physiological reasons, dizziness, or anemia, they are generally not serious. However, if they result from arrhythmia, hyperthyroidism, or psychological factors, the condition may be more severe. The details are as follows:
1. Physiological Palpitations
These are caused by intense physical activity, excessive mental stress, alcohol consumption, use of adrenaline medications, or pregnancy. Physiological palpitations usually involve only a sensation of abnormal heartbeat and tend to resolve spontaneously, thus are generally not serious.
2. Dizziness
Dizziness commonly occurs in the morning, often due to insufficient blood supply to the heart, leading to temporary cerebral hypoxia. This condition is typically brief and not severe. It is recommended that patients consume more foods rich in protein and vitamins.
3. Anemia
Anemia can occur due to acute blood loss from various causes. Symptoms often include cold sweats, weak pulse, decreased blood pressure, or shock, but the condition is generally not very serious. Patients are advised to follow medical advice and take medications such as ferrous sulfate tablets, Shengmai Yin, or iron(II) fumarate tablets for treatment.
4. Arrhythmia
All types of premature beats, as well as tachyarrhythmias and bradyarrhythmias, can cause palpitations, which are usually considered serious. Patients should follow medical guidance and use medications such as Wenxin Granules, enteric-coated aspirin tablets, or dronedarone hydrochloride tablets for treatment.
5. Hyperthyroidism
Palpitations in hyperthyroidism may be persistent or paroxysmal, accompanied by increased heart rate, weight loss, increased appetite, and limb tremors. This condition is relatively serious and results from abnormal thyroid function. Patients may take medications such as methimazole tablets, propylthiouracil tablets, or propranolol hydrochloride tablets as directed by their physicians.
In addition, palpitations may also occur in various other diseases, such as heart failure. Patients experiencing palpitations should seek timely medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment as prescribed.
