PVCs, SVT, and Chronic Anxiety

[georgebassett]

Have had Anxiety Disorder and panic attacks for many years. Went to ER two days ago with difficulty breathing and panic. Doctor attributed all to anxiety. I've also had pvcs for years, but noticed on the monitor that it was switching between sinus rhythm and SV rhythm, plus flashing a warning light that said SVT. The doctor was being rude and said not to worry about it, all anxiety. But at 45 yrs old, and a smoker for many years, I AM worried. Is this normal for someone who has panic attacks, or could there be something wrong with my heart.

[georgebassett]

My heart rate during panic hits around 150, so I guess I'm not alone. Thank you for letting me know about this. I'm just tired of the attacks and the feeling that I can't do anything about them. Trying to let Effexor and Klonopin kick in and help. Maybe, just maybe, that will restore a little control.

[itdood]

ack, I wasn't clear enough in my post.    What I meant to say is that any heart rate above 100 and ORIGINATING above the ventricles is SVT.  there are other type of issues that are there but I'm sure for you it was just adrenaline.

[itdood]

Technically speaking, any heart rate above 100 is SVT,  It means the pacing origin is above the ventricles which is where it should be.  During my anxiety attacks my HR can hit 145.  It's just so much fun!!  ugh..

[ireneo]

My understanding is that during a panic attack there's quite a bit of adrenalin released into the system. That will increase heart rate and even make it a bit erratic. Imagine driving along and almost being in an accident. You get the surge of adrenalin and the heart starts racing/pounding, generally acting out of the norm. And you'll break out in a sweat and have trouble breathing or breathe too fast. Once the body chemistry evens out again, you feel better.

I have asthma and when I go in for a nebulizer treatment, they give me medication similar to adrenalin and it makes my heart pound and race. It's not very pleasant.