Can anxiety cause heart problems?

Hello, I'm an expert in the field of mental health and cardiology. I can provide you with information on the relationship between anxiety and heart problems. Anxiety can indeed have an impact on heart health, although it's important to note that anxiety itself is not a direct cause of heart disease. However, it can contribute to heart problems in several ways: 1. Stress Response: Anxiety triggers the body's stress response, which can lead to an increased heart rate and blood pressure. Over time, this can take a toll on the cardiovascular system. 2. Lifestyle Factors: People with anxiety may engage in behaviors that are harmful to their heart health, such as smoking, excessive caffeine consumption, or substance abuse, which can increase the risk of heart problems. 3. Physical Symptoms: Anxiety can cause physical symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath, which can mimic heart problems and may lead to unnecessary medical interventions or additional stress. 4. Co-occurring Conditions: Anxiety is often linked with other conditions that can affect the heart, such as depression, sleep disorders, and high blood pressure. 5. Psychological Stress: Prolonged psychological stress from anxiety can lead to atherosclerosis, which is the hardening and narrowing of the arteries, a condition that can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. It's important to manage anxiety through a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of any potential heart problems. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques can also help.

In most people, SVTs are random events not triggered by exercise or other activities. SVTs cause symptoms of heart palpitations, lightheadedness, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and, at times, they may cause you to pass out. The mind responds and can cause further symptoms of anxiety and panic.