I get intense palpitations and panic attacks. Should I worry about my heart?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 23-year-old male. Two years ago, I had intense palpitations, and I was diagnosed with anxiety disorder. I had panic attacks, but then I was able to recover by myself. For a few days, I had two panic attacks. And I am afraid that this is anxiety, or that my diagnosis was wrong as if I had some serious health issues. I worry that I have a heart problem. Even if someone touches my chest I feel uncomfortable. I do not think a lot. I try to calm myself, but somehow I am not able to calm myself no matter what I try. The main problem now is my anger. I suddenly feel so much angry, about very stupid things like I am walking on a road and a car blows my horn continuously I feel very irritated and angry if my girlfriend does not pick up my call I get so much anger and it is not normal. If I try to control my anger I feel numbness and hand shakes, I even have palpitations. This is very worrying for me as I think this is very serious this time. My heart palpitations go away only when I am in deep sleep or when I am doing something so deeply without noticing anything. I had palpitations two days before my exams, I tried calming techniques but it did not go away. But when I was in the examination center, when I started writing my answers I was so deeply busy in writing, that my palpitations go away. And then after the exam I was fine. But anger is ruining my life. I want to change the way I am. I am currently taking Sertraline and beta-blockers.

Answered by Dr. Ruhi Satija

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ruhi Satija is a Psychologist and Psychotherapist skilled in assessing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health and emotional issues. Her expertise includes cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, stress and anxiety management, depression treatment, trauma-focused therapy, and counseling for relationship or personal challenges. She is experienced in helping individuals, couples, and families develop coping strategies, improve emotional well-being, and achieve personal growth.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Panic attacks often mimic a heart attack. In fact, one of the common differential diagnosis of panic attack is cardiac arrest. If it is happening often it is advisable to get an ECG (electrocardiogram) done. Please tell me from last how many days are you taking anti-anxiety medications? Secondly, I would advise you to start cognitive behavior therapy. Anxietyis caused by negative thoughts called cognitive distortions these can be improved with various techniques used in the therapy. Once you learn how to cope with these negative thoughts you will be able to control your anxiety. Find a local therapist or you can opt for online therapy via video consultation. Relaxation techniques such as box breathing and progressive muscle relaxation help in long-term efficacy.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Vinodhini J.
Published At January 4, 2020
Reviewed At June 27, 2023

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ruhi Satija is a Psychologist and Psychotherapist skilled in assessing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health and emotional issues. Her expertise includes cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, stress and anxiety management, depression treatment, trauma-focused therapy, and counseling for relationship or personal challenges. She is experienced in helping individuals, couples, and families develop coping strategies, improve emotional well-being, and achieve personal growth.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vinodhini J. is a Dental Surgeon with extensive years of clinical experience. She specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and oral health issues, including restorative, surgical, and cosmetic procedures. With a patient-centered approach, she focuses on maintaining oral health, alleviating discomfort, and enhancing smiles. Her expertise ensures comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s dental needs and overall wellbeing.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ruhi Satija is a Psychologist and Psychotherapist skilled in assessing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health and emotional issues. Her expertise includes cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, stress and anxiety management, depression treatment, trauma-focused therapy, and counseling for relationship or personal challenges. She is experienced in helping individuals, couples, and families develop coping strategies, improve emotional well-being, and achieve personal growth.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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