AFib and Anxiety: The Hidden Link Worsening Heart Health

The symptoms of atrial fibrillation might be mistaken for anxiety and vice versa.

Atrial fibrillation, also called AFib, is a common heart condition that affects blood flow in your heart. There might be a relationship between AFib and anxiety disorders.

Because AFib can cause heart palpitations, the symptoms might be mistaken for anxiety or a panic attack. Likewise, anxiety or panic might be mistaken for AFib.

Although anxiety doesn't seem to cause AFib, people with AFib might be more likely to develop anxiety disorders.

Because AFib interrupts the flow of blood in your body, it can put you at risk of having a stroke or developing blood clots. However, with medical treatment, it's possible to live a healthy life.

Can anxiety cause AFib?

Research from 2019 found that anxiety might play a role in triggering AFib by influencing how the body's nervous system controls the heart.

This means that when someone experiences intense or long-term anxiety, it could potentially make their heart more prone to rhythm disturbances.

Similarly, research from 2021 found that older adults with anxiety symptoms were more likely to have AFib, even when other health issues like high blood pressure or diabetes were considered.

These findings hint that anxiety may contribute to AF in certain people, especially those already at risk for heart problems.

However, larger studies have found that anxiety on its own doesn't seem to cause AF. Research from 2020 that analyzed data from several major studies found no clear link between anxiety and developing AF over time.

Instead, experts believe that stress and anxiety may act more as "triggers" rather than direct causes, meaning they can worsen or bring on symptoms in someone who already has other heart risk factors.

In short, anxiety may not cause AF by itself, but managing stress and emotional health is still important for keeping the heart stable and healthy.

What is AFib?

AFib is a kind of heart arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat).

The atria (the two upper chambers of your heart) beat irregularly and out of sync with the heart's lower chambers. This can cause blood to pool in the heart, potentially leading to the formation of clots. If a clot travels to the brain, it can cause a stroke

AFib is fairly common. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), more than have AFib, and more than 12 million are projected to have it by 2030.

Atrial fibrillation may be temporary or permanent. It can also come and go. A type of AFib called paroxysmal AFib resolves on its own without medical intervention, but you may be prescribed medication or lifestyle changes to prevent future episodes and complications.

Can anxiety feel like AFib?

Yes. There are some similarities between the symptoms of anxiety and the symptoms of AFib, so you might mistake AFib for anxiety and vice versa.

The most notable symptom of AFib is heart palpitations. It might feel like your heart is fluttering or beating too hard. This sensation can also be caused by anxiety or a panic attack.

Other common symptoms of atrial fibrillation include:

• chest pain
• confusion
• dizziness
• fainting
• fatigue
• intolerance to exercise
• lightheadedness
• shortness of breath
• weakness

Some of those symptoms, including lightheadedness, dizziness, and shortness of breath, can also be symptoms of anxiety or panic attacks.

As with panic attacks, AFib symptoms might last minutes or hours. In some cases, the symptoms of AFib can last days.

If you experience these symptoms, it's best to make an appointment with a doctor. A medical professional can screen you for AFib and other possible physical conditions. If you'd like, you can ask them to refer you to a therapist for anxiety.

If you're not sure whether you're experiencing a panic attack, AFib, or a heart attack, it's best to seek emergency care immediately.

Tips for managing stress and anxiety

Chronic stress and anxiety can affect your physical, social, and emotional health. However, finding effective ways to manage stress and anxiety is possible.

Stress management techniques can include:

• reducing excess stress by cutting back on commitments that are not enjoyable for you
• engaging in regular physical activity to
• trying yoga, which is associated with
• spending time in nature
• meditating regularly
• trying breathing exercises
• spending time with supportive loved ones
• engaging in fun, creative hobbies
• joining support groups

You might also benefit from speaking with a mental health professional. Therapy is a safe space where you can learn to process and manage your emotions in a healthy, effective way. You do not have to be diagnosed with a mental health condition to seek therapy, as almost anyone can benefit from it.

Takeaway

The symptoms of AFib can be mistaken for anxiety symptoms and vice versa. Although chronic stress can affect your cardiovascular health, there isn't enough evidence to suggest that anxiety causes AFib.

If you think you're experiencing AFib or are not sure what's causing your symptoms, considering making an appointment with your doctor can be a helpful next step.