Anxiety & Heart Problems

The first signs of anxiety---rapid heartbeat, tightness in the chest and fatigue---may signal more than you think. These are the same early indicators of heart disease. Though the topic is still under debate, researchers are giving these identical symptoms a closer look to see how anxiety and heart problems may be related.

The Research

• Because of the stark differences in heart studies between women and men, the topic of heart disease and anxiety is still heavily debated. Studies are being done to see if there is a link between short-term anxiety and chronic anxiety in terms of how they affect a predisposition for coronary artery disease.

  According to a 2008 study published in The Journal of the American College of Cardiology, "Anxiety-prone dispositions appear to be a robust and independent risk factor of myocardial infarction (heart attack), among older men. Another study published in the journal in 2001 stated, "Among women with chest pain symptoms, a history of anxiety disorders is associated with a lower probability of significant angiographic CAD (Coronary Artery Disease)."

  An article in Psychology Today, published January 2009, reviewed the important differences distinguishing symptoms of anxiety from those of heart disease. Dr. Jay Winner, who founded the Stress Reduction Program at Samsung Clinic, states that a resting heart rate that exceeds 100 beats per minute or drops below 50 is grounds for seeking cardiac evaluation. Shortness of breath, pain in the chest region and a consistently irregular heartbeat, which may also be signs of anxiety, may indicate a more serious underlying issue with your heart.

  Anxiety, when experienced through a traumatic incident, a diagnosis of panic disorder or a panic attack, is generally not correlated to heart disease. However, patients are likely to dismiss an uneven heart rate and chest discomfort if they have experienced it before during times of anxiety and high stress.

What It Means for Your Heart

• Whether the research concludes a correlation between anxiety and heart issues or not, there are measures you can take during times of high anxiety to make sure your heart is in the best health it can be.

  Be mindful of how you respond to anxiety and stress. Even if you suspect that your discomfort is temporary, get evaluated by a medical professional.

  Maintain a heart-healthy diet. Commit to eating a diet that is high in fiber, whole grains and antioxidants, and low in saturated fat.

  Set aside time each week for cardiovascular exercise. Walking and swimming are great ways to get started if you are a beginner. The American Heart Association states that daily activity "counters anxiety and depression and increases enthusiasm and optimism."