Can palpitations lead to myocardial ischemia?

Jul 15, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I have been experiencing palpitations and a feeling of panic recently, and I am worried this may affect my heart. May I ask if palpitations can cause myocardial ischemia?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xin
Whether palpitations can lead to myocardial ischemia depends on the specific circumstances and cannot be generalized. Palpitations themselves are a symptom, typically characterized by an uncomfortable sensation of heartbeat or a feeling of anxiety, which can be caused by various factors, including both physiological and pathological causes. Palpitations themselves do not cause myocardial ischemia. However, palpitations may be associated with myocardial ischemia, particularly when they are caused by cardiac diseases such as arrhythmia or coronary artery disease. These heart conditions may lead to reduced cardiac blood supply, thereby causing myocardial ischemia. Myocardial ischemia refers to a pathological condition in which reduced blood perfusion to the heart leads to decreased oxygen supply, abnormal myocardial energy metabolism, and the inability to sustain normal heart function. Therefore, patients experiencing palpitations are advised to seek medical attention promptly to determine the underlying cause through appropriate diagnostic tests, enabling targeted treatment and the prevention of serious complications such as myocardial ischemia.