What causes sudden palpitations and anxiety?

Jun 26, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I suddenly experienced palpitations and a feeling of panic when I was at work today. What are the possible causes of sudden palpitations and panic?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. He Haochen
The possible causes of sudden palpitations and anxiety may include the following: 1. Emotional factors: Abnormally intense emotions such as excitement, anxiety, or stress can affect blood circulation and increase the workload on the heart, leading to palpitations and anxiety. 2. Heart diseases: Conditions such as myocarditis and angina pectoris can cause ischemia and hypoxia in myocardial cells, thereby triggering palpitations and anxiety. 3. Arrhythmias: Including atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, bradycardia, and tachycardia—these arrhythmias can all lead to symptoms of palpitations and anxiety. 4. Lifestyle habits: Unhealthy lifestyle habits such as excessive work fatigue, heavy alcohol consumption, drinking strong tea or coffee, and irregular作息 (作息 should be translated as "sleep patterns" or "daily routines") may also cause palpitations and anxiety. 5. Medications: Certain drugs, such as atropine and epinephrine, may also lead to palpitations and anxiety. If these symptoms occur frequently or are severe, it is recommended that patients seek timely medical evaluation to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.