The frequency of the heartbeat usually varies depending on the situations we go through. In general terms, it is notable that in moments of stupor, uncertainty and fear an acceleration of the heart rate is experienced. At the other extreme, when we are faced with situations of harmony, peace and tranquility, relaxation can occur that reflects our state of mind. It is understandable that the body manifests itself in many ways, but the problem appears when manifestations occur that produce physical, mental, emotional and behavioral problems that impact the person’s daily life. In these cases, the organic factors that could be the basis of many ailments and discomforts cannot be left aside, but we can also ask ourselves if this type of reaction may have a psychological reason that develops without any specific reason.
In this Psychology-Online article we explain How to know if I have tachycardia due to anxiety and how to calm it.
What is anxiety tachycardia?
Anxiety tachycardia consists of incrise of cardiac frecuency which occurs as a result of one or several specific situations that arouse nervousness, fear and/or uncertainty. However, it is important not to confuse these tachycardias with biologically based heart problems that must be treated by health specialists such as doctors or cardiologists.
The main characteristic feature of this problem is that the heart rate increases after having been in contact with a person, situation and/or object in life that has generated certain emotions that the person cannot control. Here you will find which are the main ones.
Symptoms of anxiety tachycardia
This clinical picture has some manifestations that allow it to be detected in time, in order to develop appropriate strategies to alleviate the symptoms. Below we show you the main symptoms of anxiety tachycardia:
- Shortness of breath
- Vomiting (in some cases)
- Excessive sweating
- Palpitations
- Catastrophic thoughts
- Avoidance of social settings
- Body tingling
It should be noted that the presence of any of these symptoms in isolation does not necessarily represent a condition of anxiety tachycardia. Therefore, the diagnosis should always be made by a mental health professional specialized in this disorder.
Causes of anxiety tachycardia
Tachycardias due to anxiety do not appear instantly, but can be due to various reasons that cause it. In this section we will develop the main causes of anxiety tachycardia:
Environmental factors
First of all, it is important to know that there are various situations that can trigger anxiety. When this occurs, it is possible that the person begins to experience the symptoms of anxiety tachycardia because the body functions as a means of expression.
Among the best-known circumstances of environmental triggering factors, the following stand out: job losses, love disagreements, uncertainties of the life, family problemsamong others.
Biological factors
On the other hand, the appearance of a high anxiety load can also be the product of a increased cortisol, hormone linked to stress. When the central nervous system sends neuronal signals aimed at activating cortisol due to danger coming from outside, there is usually an increase in heart rate.
Likewise, in the case of tachycardias due to anxiety, the genetic predisposition of each person and their parents.
How long does anxiety tachycardia last?
The duration of tachycardia due to anxiety usually varies depending on the person, since there are various factors that can affect this aspect. However, it is estimated that the duration of this clinical condition ranges between a few seconds and several minutes.
Here the type of situation that the person is going through will come into play to correct the problem.
What to do in case of tachycardia due to anxiety
Despite the difficulties that anxiety tachycardia can cause, there are some solutions that lead to improvements in the quality of life of people who suffer from it. In the following items, we will explain what to do in case of tachycardia due to anxiety:
Magnesium citrate
This component has the ability to relax the central nervous system, resulting in a decrease in heart rate. To prepare magnesium citrate, it is advisable to gradually increase the dose according to the body’s maximum tolerance. If in doubt, you can consult a health professional.
Infusions
These preparations contain relaxing properties for the body human. The most recommended and well-known infusions that you can take in these cases are chamomile, valerian, lime blossom, lemon balm or lavender, among others. In the following article you will find others.
Meditation
This practice decreases breathing rate and can help reduce negative thoughts. Try to practice meditation in a calm environment away from outside noises.
However, if you do not have much experience with this type of exercises, it is advisable to carry out a meditation guided by an instructor. Here you can read more information about the .
Write
On the other hand, writing can provide important relief when coping with anxiety. To perform this exercise you can try write down all the emotions and thoughts that make you uncomfortable on a sheet of paper, the computer or even in the notes on your cell phone.
Writing is an effective way to distance ourselves from what worries us and adopt a more optimistic vision.
Psychological therapy
Finally, if the person has a greater inability to control anxiety and this causes great complications in their daily life, another of the most effective means of resolution may be to go to a mental health professional.
During the course of treatment, the professional will develop tools and strategies aimed at reducing predominant anxiety.
This article is merely informative, at Psychology-Online we do not have the power to make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment. We invite you to go to a psychologist to treat your particular case.
If you want to read more articles similar to How to know if I have tachycardia due to anxiety and how to calm itwe recommend that you enter our category.
Bibliography
- Martínez Mallen, M., López Garza, D. (2011). Anxiety disorders. Medigraphic Magazine, 44 (3), 101-107.