👉👉👉 Do you have Health Anxiety? Health anxiety self assessment www.paigepradko.com/healthanxietyquiz 👉👉👉 PDF: Why Do I Feel That in my Body? Explanations of Bodily Symptoms Due to Anxiety, Stress and Panic www.paigepradko.com/bodyanxiety 👉👉👉 Health Anxiety Course www.paigepradko.com/healthanxiety 👉👉👉 Health Anxiety/Panic Course BUNDLE: Recommended for Cardiophobia: www.paigepradko.com/offers/sRprF2oF
My symptoms Left or right side arm pain Weired pinching sensations in my chest Gerd, reflux Neck pain Crazy heart beats I wnt to pretty much go the the er or doctor for reassurance daily 😭 Had cardiac wrk up, my heart is perfectly healthy, still scared something is being missed. YALL ARE NOT ALONE 🫂
Stress and emotions CAN change the heart physically. In other words you may not necessarily have a phobia. 1. The release of stress or emotion hormones can temporarily alter the heart muscle and surrounding tissue (pericardium) without doing any long term harm, causing the same kind of symptoms as ischemic heart disease (physical narrowing or blockage in arteries). This microscopic damage caused hormonally by stress or emotion is not usually detectable or picked up by medical tests - hence the frequent conclusion that the problem is phobic or in the head. Scary heart symptoms reslting as a result of these slight alterations to the heart tissue can be alarming, even mimicking a heart attack and therefore cause a sudden flood of additionl stress hormones, making the situation spiral, or become chronic over days or weeks. The resulting fear can also result in a panic attack attack, which can also mimic ischemic heart disease. 2. The coranary heart arteries sometimes spasm for NO REASON whatsoever when the person affected is at rest. In other words not as a direct result of stress or upset (at least on a conscious level). This condition has many names, such as Prinzmetal angina. Once again it is hard for doctors to detect. It is not life threatening, unless there is also ischemic (physical blopckage) heart disease, which would definitely be picked up by tests. Before modern tests were available people with any kind of heart pain often became sedentary (thinking this would protect the heart) and subsequently overweight from the resulting inactivity. Ironically, this can lead to genuine atherosclerosis and ischemic heart disease. 3. Emotional stress such as a break-up can cause the heart to temporarily change shape, and therefore cause distressing symptoms - known as Broken Heart Syndrome. This was first recognised by doctors a few decades ago. Once again the heart is not permenantly damaged (as far as we know) and symptoms usually last just a few weeks or months, resolving when the person gets over the mental trauma that led to the problem. Like Prinzmetal Angina, it can sometimes occur spontaniously, i.e. without any emotional stimulus. The way to recover from/avoid these mind related heart conditions is to learn to avoid over-stimulating the adrenal glands - where stress related hormones are released - in other words, avoid acute and chronic stress. Also avoid long periods of stimulus, such as indulging in low grade excitement, e.g. spending long periods of time worked up by social media or getting involved in controversial discussions etc. Exercise on a daily basis - eg. long walks. Become a more passive, 'right brained' person (read novels, watch films, do yoga, mediation, sing, play an instrument, listen to music, aromatherapy etc.) become more philosophical. If there is worry, upset or uncertainty in your life, try and be as positive as possible, and remember the proverb: 'Change what you can and accept what you can't.' Read up on electrolytes as they can go out of balance and cause temporary heart problems. Keep away from devices that have a strong magnetic field - such as massage chairs. Isometric excercises can cause temporary heart issues in some people. If you've been checked out for physical heart disease - it's safe to ignore heart issues. Easier said than done, e.g. if you have stabbing pains, heavy heart beats, crushing chest feeling etc. Know that you are not alone and the heart sometimes plays up like this. It's safe to get on with your life. .
This is such a beautiful post. Just starting to push through and get my life back after 3 months of hell. It did force me to get heart tests done and they found very earlier and minor plaque build up. So it’s a blessing as I can make adjustments to ensure it’s not a problem later. But no one could explain the physical anxiety I was dealing with , as well as chest pain, back pain , tingling the whole works. God bless you ☺️🙏
I love your videos. I have a lot of cardiophobia. I'm only 19 years old and all my doctors tell me I'm fine and won't even do tests because they are so sure I'm fine. I have been the the ER for a panic attack where my heart rate was 157 and my blood pressure was 140/90 because I was having such a bad panic attack. They took and EKG and saw absolutely nothing wrong with me. I check my pulse constantly and I get so anxious because of my pulse which makes the symptoms worse and it becomes a cycle. Your voice is so calming and hearing nothing is wrong with you physically your ok, it's your anxiety helps so much
I can relate to your comment because I ended up in the ER, thinking I was having a heart attack when I was 22 years old. It is important to understand once we have been medically evaluated that those symptoms are not harmful or dangerous. You do not need to check anything and monitoring only makes it worse in the long run. I hope that you can live your life and let go of those fears and self monitoring.
I'm 59 years of age and over the last 20 years I have had the same problem. Been to the ER countless times over the years since about the age of 37. I've seen my HR get as high as 184bpm and blood pressure upwards of 210/113. I was admitted to the hospital for 3 days running all kinds of tests and turns out I am very fit. They even did a full body CT scan with contrast to check all my organs including heart and vessels and nothing was wrong except for a couple of spots of minimal plaque on my aorta which the cardiologist said was excellent since I was 58 at the time most people are full of plaque. So, even with all the reassurance over the years I still find myself checking my HR and blood pressure. I face my fears and exercise but it is horrible because I am constantly thinking about my heart. Okay, so what started all this? Well I had a dizzy spell when I was 37 and went to my primary care physician and he did an EKG in his office. He called a couple of days later and told me to stop exercising because there was an abnormality on my EKG. When I asked what it was, he said my heart could suddenly stop. I didn't see how that could be because I had been exercising since the age of 13 in martial arts, and started lifting weights and doing extensive cardiovascular exercise since the age of 18. I was super fit, very athletic, lean, and yet he told me my heart could stop. So, guess what I did? Everything I felt that was related to heart drove me over the edge and off to the hospital I went. The hospital at that time did a series of tests and said nothing was wrong and when I told them about what my previous doc told me, they said there was no way. They told me to go home and carry on with life. However, in the back of my mind I kept thinking they missed something because I was still feeling dizzy especially when I would exercise even before the doc told me about my heart could stop. So, I stopped all exercise and basically became cautious of everything I did. I stopped martial arts, weight training, and everything that had to do with getting my heart rate up. I became obsessed with the human body and started taking biology classes, medical school, the whole 9 yards. Trained in sports medicine, functional medicine, and integrative medicine with a specialty in endocrinology and hematology. Guess what my first interest was? You guessed it - cardiology. I spent years training in cardiology as well. Okay, let's fast forward to today so I can tell you what I found out my problem was regarding the dizziness. I was in a severe accident at the age of 19 that resulted in whiplash which resulted in what is referred to as military neck with cervical instability which results in cervicogenic dizziness ALL related to the NECK. I basically lost the natural curve in my neck which caused irritation of the vagus nerve which caused a host of problems with mainly dizziness. So, what was the problem with the EKG? I got a copy of the test results from the docs and all the hospitals I was admitted to over the years and it was NOTHING. Well, almost. Without getting too technical, I basically had an athletic heart and it was showing a T wave abnormality on the EKG. However, if the physician KNEW what he was doing, he would have never said it was an abnormality for someone MY AGE and athleticism as MOST athletes show the same abnormality. It is ONLY an abnormality in older adults that are NOT athletic or active. Too much to go into here, BUT to think I got into the medical field so I could learn everything about the human body because I was afraid of my body! How ironic! So, even to this day and I know everything is fine, I still find myself checking my HR and blood pressure at least once per week even though my BP this afternoon was 114/74 which is perfection. Mine is OCD related and it is something that I need to drive out of my subconscious mind. My conscious mind KNOWS nothing is wrong, BUT the subconscious mind is the driving force behind every decision you make in life. Well, most every decision. Anyways, I will stop here, but thought I would share my experience and journey. One thing I have done is turn my misery into something good by being able to help thousands of men and women over the years with their own medical issues. Wishing you well!
I was just having palpitations and cardio phobia before seeing this. After seeing this, my life has changed. I'm from Uganda and I've been experiencing heart related anxiety.
Hi there loving people. It's amazing how many of us are suffering from these cardiophobia . I'm have been several times to ER . I'm from SA I'm 39 . I have been doing all of the above . My story is hectic . I have a defib device in me and I had been shocked 20times about 3 months ago . I stayed in hospital for 3 weeks and I was so afraid to go home . The hospital is about 1/2 hr away from me . Gosh I can't even continue coz I don't feel good describing this to u guys . Thank you Paige . I will listen to this recordings over n over so it becomes part of my brain.
Hi Karishma, thank you for sharing your story with us. It takes immense courage to open up about such personal struggles. Your strength and resilience are truly inspiring. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and there is support available to you. You've already shown incredible bravery, and I believe in your ability to overcome this challenge. Take care of yourself, and know that there are people rooting for you every step of the way.
Everyone said in this video describes my experience to a tee, including the delayed reaction to stress, where these symptoms show up a few days later after something stressful happens.
Paige, it's like you read my mind when you made this video. I'm 46, went to the doctor for hearth beating fast and skipped beats. I checked out fine, but I kept worrying, taking less risks, and even stopped going to the gym, being scared of stairs, or doing anything demanding of my heart. I've taken your health anxiety course and have been seeing constant improvement over the last 3 weeks. In fact I just got back from a gym session doing cardio and lifting weights and am feeling great. The heart thumps and flutters have diminished and I feel more in control if I get a twinge or a weird feeling. Being able to tell myself 'oh well' and actively working on not overthinking about every little sensation is very difficult at first, but eventually it subsides, especially after nonstop monitoring that I was doing with my Fitbit and Blood Pressure monitors. I really can't thank you enough. The work that you're doing on your channel has helped me so incredibly much and I'm sure others as well. Bless you! Sending all the love from San Diego!
I am so happy to hear about your progress. It is difficult to face your fear head on, but you are on the path to recovery. Keep doing what you are doing. And thank you so much for sharing. I hope your comment inspires others as well. ❤️
Out of all the videos I've watched online about health anxiety, I can just relate to yours on another level, even watching the videos can really seem to calm my anxiety down, I've made some efforts to start exposing myself to my fears but its so hard, but i know that I can do it, and that i'm stronger than my anxiety. Some days I feel as if i cant go on no more, or that something catastrophic will happen with my heart, or any other bodily sensation that I feel and hyperfocus on, and it drives me crazy. But I know that i can push past my fears, and so can everyone else, it just takes time.
I’m glad you have resonated with my videos, Sam. Health anxiety is very challenging. Keep reminding yourself that it is health anxiety and focus on what is reality, what you know with certainty and what is probable instead of possible. I often tell my clients that it’s possible that I could get hit with a meteor…it’s possible, but not probable. Health anxiety tries to convince you to believe in the possible instead of the probable. Don’t let it convince you. Stay with the probable. 😊
Thank you so much for this! I’ve been dealing with intense cardiophobia, OCD, and panic attacks for the last couple years off and on. This video made me feel seen and validated what I’ve been going through.
Thankyou for this! It’s the best explanation summary and advice I’ve seen, or read on this subject. Like yourself, I know how debilitating this can be. In my case they began with a sudden episode of Atrial Fibrillation a decade ago. After several sudden tachycardia episodes and several more visits to A & E (E.R…I’m British!), I was told my heart was “OK”, but it never felt “quite right” after that initial event. So that began to manifest in me losing trust in my (NHS) GP and the cardiologist (who fobbed me off after a 5 minute chat). Since then, I’ve tried to help myself, instead of relying on our struggling state health system, here in England. I’ve tried to improve my diet. It has actually improved things. I rarely get the “panic attacks” (if that’s what they ever were!) now. I often got them when just in a shop, or out walking, but mainly at night, just as I was nodding off. The heart would start pounding and I was convinced I was about to have a heart attack. Then I’d start shaking all over and be sat for hours on the toilet with “reactive” bowel issues. It was horrible. But I still haven’t overcome my fear of “pushing” my heart. I was a very active young man. Now, at 63, I hardly even go for a leisurely stroll…but the weird thing is that I still manage to do my job…I’m a skinny, self-employed gardener. Go figure! All in the mind, or what?!
Ah, you have my dream job, a skinny, self-employed gardener. Lol. I am glad you like the video and hope it is helpful. Isn’t that interesting that a leisurely stroll might trigger your fear, but gardening does not.
I salute you, for made this video, I am in recovery from anxiety,, i ve experience that heart palpitations that cause more insomnia,, shu,, it's a bad experience. Dr did a ecg and it was normal bt this heart palpitations continue,, what I do, deep breathing,, reassurance that there is no danger,, i m encourages anyone going thru this problem not to give up,, they will recover,, have hope and pray❤
Hi there, I just found your youtube channel. Thank you for the information! I have been officially diagnosed with atrial fibrilation and mitral valve prolapse/regurgitation this year and I had a stroke in 2022. I have been dealing with health anxiety for a little over a year. It comes and goes and has not been fun at all! What is hard for me is knowing that I truly do have a medical condition and being able to tell when symptoms might truly be related to my diagnosed conditions or if it's just health anxiety being the culprit. I don't want to blow off symptoms as anxiety when it might be something I should be legitimately concerned about. I appreciate the info you are sharing with us and will continue to be open to learning all I can regarding what's going on with me.
Mine is getting worse and worse , it’s every day now. I’m my last bloods showed my white blood cell count and platelets were high , so anxiety and stress are now in fact making me ill. I get fever, I have tension all over, I can’t seem to shake the fact it could be anxiety and always have that small 5 per cent thought of it is serious. I’ve tried everything. I think I might just have to go on medication , there is nothing more I can do. I eat well I excercise I fast. I just can’t get the thoughts out of my head
I’ve been experiencing cardiophobia since april of 2023. For the first few months, I would be in a constant state of panic, high heart rate after slight movement, and even had left arm sensation and chest pains. I can’t visit a doctor, and I really want to. But after those few months, my anxiety isn’t as bad as as it use to be. But sometimes I will get random symptoms like chest pains, or arm sensations. And I will be in an anxiety state. I just want this to go away, I don’t wanna experience this no more
I have these quite often, and have had the ECG and 24 hour monitor. Every time I feel a flutter, a skip, etc, I feel anxious and then the more I focus on them the worse they get.
I’ve had ectopic heart beats since I was about 19 years old, I’m 41 now and until recently have never been able to go through with an appointment at the doctors through fear of what they will tell me. I also have OCD which when I look back I started noticing symptoms of around the same time as my palpations. I’m now in therapy for my OCD, which can bring so much anxiety leading to a vicious cycle but for the first one I actually went to the doctors about my palpitations. She listened, she heard them, she took my blood pressure which she said was really good, and made an appointment for me to have an ECG but doesn’t think there is any cause for concern. I have my ECG coming up this week.
Three years of GERD has produced my soul source of anxiety. Thus why I youtube cardio videos. To make things worse, heart attack videos (meant to educate) are scary and trigger more anxiety.
Heart health anxiety has not been the most scary symptom I’ve had with panic disorder and health anxiety but it’s definitely top 2. It is very annoying but I would say the scariest symptom I’ve experience was prolonged DR.
I’ve had this since my 20’s, it’s taken a long time for me to learn to ignore skipped beats. They seem to come in clusters so I know if I wait a month or two they will probably go away.
@@yshukla yeah, the way I got over it is is to discover what was behind this fear was death. But what death means for us is the end of us. That is not true at all! After I have watched so many videos on Near death experiences and the mysteries of reincarnation from serious individuals I realized that we dont end when we die. So, I just embraced the fact that my heart might eventually stop along with the anxiety and realized that it happens is NOT going to stop me from existing. You and I will exist for ever my friend whether you chose to believe me or not ❤️
Hey i wanna ask if its possible to have an anxiety about the way you breathe? I mean I'm breathing but i feel like its shalow and I'm not satisfied with it.. but i also have health anxiety so i want to know if that's connected somehow
I am not sure if you saw this video. I have the same problem and yes, it is a type of OCD called sensorimotor/somatic awareness OCD. It is often experienced by people with health anxiety. th-cam.com/video/0kjFbCy_Sio/w-d-xo.htmlsi=w86uiyMu_yZd2tkS
Hello doctor. Please excuse my grammar, as I am going to use the translator. I don't usually leave comments, but in this case, I must. The truth is that I have been struggling with anxiety problems and some related physical problems for years. I began to experience that my heart suddenly dropped, or that a "kick" hit me from inside my chest. I went to the cardiologist and He told me that I had the heart of an 18-year-old person (I'm 41), when I told him about the sensation in my chest he told me "it's nothing." I also asked my endocrinologist (since I suspected it could be due to my hypothyroidism) and he said "it's all in your head." I assumed it wasn't dangerous because the tests came back normal, but the feeling of sudden discomfort got worse. I stopped going out, I lost all my friends, and I separated from my girlfriend because I'm worried all the time and I can't accompany her on walks or outings. This video most likely just saved my life, not only because it gives me a reason why I feel this way, it also normalizes my experience and I don't feel alone. I understand that the path to improvement is long and involves work, but my anxiety works in the following way: "if the problem is recognizable, the problem has a solution." Anxiety feeds on uncertainty, AND, many times, the solution to the problem It is knowing that there is no danger. Nowadays, living in Argentina is not recommended for people who suffer from anxiety, but your video has helped me greatly to start living better. Encourage me to exercise again to strengthen my heart, maybe go for a walk again, etc. If ever, for whatever reason, you consider or doubt that these videos are fruitless; Know that today, an adult who has been suffering since he was 18, is writing to you with tears in his eyes, to thank you from the bottom of his heart. I'm sorry I can't meet you and give you a hug... I hope, one day, I have the chance to help someone the way you have helped me. Now, let's heal!
I am truly sorry you have had to deal with this for so long. It is a challenging condition to deal with. Your message means the world to me. It is one of the most meaningful messages I have received. Thank you so much and I wish you continued healing and happiness. ❤️
Thank you for such reassurance. I recently had a holter monitor show 6.6% PVCs over seven days. Had EKG, stress echo, and I had an ablation two years ago for SVT, so my EP has been “in” my heart. My cardio and EP both kind of shrugged and said, “It’s just PVCs. You’re fine.” Thing is, they don’t at all feel fine. I know I am very very anxious about them, as I wake up every day with dread, which I NEVER used to do. But these came on a month ago after a very stressful work week, and I think my anxiety is keeping them around. Can they still be anxiety-related if they are coming and going? I can go hours without them, I feel super calm and not anxious, and then they come back for a few hours. Rinse and repeat. I just feel like now that I’m calm, why are they coming around again? I’m going to look into your bundle and see if it might help me. Thank you for this video and for your support.
@@dyannaslund2342 3 years l take atenolol 25mg l have low blood pressure .i did all kind of test even EP study they couldn't find anything abnormal.MRI CT scan stress test all good .Every day is struggle with pvc .The scariest part is when they don't allow me to sleep l fell them while sleeping ,after eating so annoying and scary 😟.my mind is constantly on heart .we are in the same boat 🥹
I can understand how health anxiety and cardiophobia can be called off as harmless, but it really is scary when things like pulmonary oedema exists because of stress. Like, I’m only 19, I’ve been stressed out after an ER visit because of a panic attack caused by Prednisone since about April or May, and ever since then I’ve had palpitations or aches in my arms or head when I don’t even feel stressed. And that whole thing about gaining something awful like pulmonary oedema at 19 because of my cardiophobia or health anxiety? It makes me lose sleep.
Chest and back pain on waking up in the morning. The pain is exactly the same as the pain felt during the first exercise. My ECG, echo, chest x-ray All reports are normal. What causes it? I am from India
I forgot☝️I want to ask an important question due to the things you said about magnesium. I did recentley a check up on my magnesium level and it was in normal range (in the middle to be exact). Is it beneficial for me to add magnesium supplement lets say 125 mcg per day OR is it uneccessary because I'm not deficiant? I really hope & wish you want to respond to this. Thank you🙏
I am not a medical doctor and do not give medical advice. But I take magnesium even though I am not deficient. I do not believe it can hurt you to take a magnesium supplement and most cardiologists suggest that their patients take it.
I saw a psychiatrist and he never mentioned this but THIS is what I have. They have told me I'm fine for 25 years. I do have SVT and had to be converted once so my doc says because I have 4 different anxiety disorder and I e had a cardiacevent they coincide. I want to be free of this. I'm in psychotherapy for 7 weeks now.. it's not helping. What else can I do. I want to live not exist. Please u are a godsend. Please help me
I am so sorry you have been dealing with this for so long. When I treat someone with this condition and their cardiac workup is normal, I treat them for panic disorder using interoceptive exposures and I treat them for cardiac related health anxiety using response prevention strategies. I have a 2-course bundle (Health anxiety/Panic course bundle) that when combined successfully treats people with this condition. www.paigepradko.com
So i relapsed in January, took something i shouldn't have, unfortunately that made my triponin raise! Was im hospital for 6 days thought i gad a heart attack turns out i didnt have one, ct scan showed my heart and arteries were perfect, but because of that i now have cardiphobia 😢 littery everyday.i think im going to have a heart attack so frustrating,
What makes it worse for me is the thought that it could be harmful in the long term to feel anxious and have my heart racing. Sometimes I can't control or stop these feelings. It gets worse when I think it could harm me in the long term. Is it harmful in the long term to be so nervous all the time and have an increased heart rate? I'm working on my fear but this thought keeps throwing me back
If you feel like you are under constant stress, there are things that you can do to manage your stress level. Things like walking, exercise, yoga, breathing exercises, meditation, etc.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy I meditate, exercise, go to paychotherapy, do Yoga, do breathing exercises and walk on my walking pad every day. This significantly reduces my stress and therefore anxiety. However, I have to work on the idea that my “too high” heart rate is dangerous in the long term. Because I still get this one. My normal pulse is 70, when I have these fears it is 90. As soon as I notice this it is very difficult for me to accept it because I think I have to change it immediately because otherwise it will be dangerous for me, that will make it even worse. But I've now watched your videos and I'm feeling a little better. Many thanks for your response and sorry for my English, it's not my native language.
Is anyone else hyper focused on the left part of the chest. I often am. Like sometimes we get this pinching sensation and now I'm just waiting for another. And this being hyper focus manifests into these weird sensation on the left chest. Like how we feel when we're being looked at. But with the left part of my chest.
Hi Paige is me again the the guy in commented in your death anxiety video. So I figured out that behind death anxiety is the fear of getting heart attacks or cardiac arrest and all of this is linked to a sudden death and I am so scared that I fear of being alone because if I faint no one is going to help me and I am so scared and i can hear my heart beat every time when I sleep always cried and now I am 13 years old and even though is rare that sudden death happens but i am still scared because even famous football players have that so it must happen to me do I think that I always has a big big risk to having that so I need help please 🙏 (sorry for my grammar issues)
I understand your fear, but you are unintentionally scaring your brain, and that will cause you anxiety. Instead, give yourself the message that you are fine. There is no evidence that you have anything wrong with your heart. This is an extremely rare condition you are imagining that you might have. A doctor could confirm that for you, but likely they would not even see a reason to do that. You have to train your brain to not let remote and rare possibilities to scare you and instead stay with probability and reality.
Hi Paige, first time I felt heart palpitations was 6 years ago after a severe panic crisis. The doctor cleared me of any heart problems and I moved on with my life but the palpitation was still there (my body literally palpitates). Somehow I managed to move on regardless maybe by focusing on other symptoms. Recently I had a personal issue that again triggered terrible panic. Suddenly I became aware again of the palpitations and been struggling since then… I was cleared again from heart issues, but I m hyper vigilating and it’s becoming quite an issue because I am afraid of simple things like sitting or laying down because that is when the sensation is clearly felt… what can I do…
I am sorry that happened to you, Eduardo. I have a panic course where I walk you through the steps of what to do to recover from cardiac sensations due to anxiety and panic. www.paigepradko.com/panic
Hey, I’ve been having some troubles lately. I think I have anxiety because I always have chest pain and think I am going to have a heart attack. I just am looking for help
I went to a doctor and had blood tests they all came back ok i then paid a private doctor to give me an ecg he said that this has come back fine. I'm still suffering with the symptoms though and am still worried 😢
It sounds like you are struggling with health anxiety. The health anxiety cycle is fed by having tests and checking symptoms and seeking constant reassurance that you are ok. If you need help, I have more resources at paigepradko.com
Hi paige I suffer from health anxiety all my anxiety is around my heart I have a lot off feeling and sensations always on the left side of my chest and something I can feel my heart beating when I am watching the TV I don't do any exercise anymore if I go for a walk I will not walk up any hills also I have a lot off intrusive some of the feelings feel lie I am about to die
I am so sorry you are limiting your movement due to this fear. I highly recommend that you have an examination so that you can rule out a medical problem. Once you do this, you will need to move again, and increase your heart rate and walk up those hills. It is healthy for a person to feel their heart beat and exercise their heart. This is also the way to face and conquer your fear.
I had a orthostatic hypertension episode one night and now it’s hard to sleep and I got an ecg and they said my heart is beautiful. I have health anxiety but I don’t have palpitations and they’re not sure why I had an hypertension episode but now I make my heart race with my anxiety. What are your thoughts?
I can not speak to the orthostatic hypertension episode. However, it seems that your heart racing is due to anxiety, as you received a positive report about the health of your heart. Given the approval of your physician, you could turn this around with interoceptive exposure training. I have a health anxiety and panic course bundle that would help you to treat both your health anxiety and teach you interoceptive training. You can find out more at paigepradko.com
Hlo dr I am 18 yrs old and I am having some symptoms like mild chest pain back pain arm pain from last two months then I went to cardiologist and he done some tests like 2d echo lipid profile test ECG but everything was normal ....then he suggested me to use inderal la 20 and I am using that from last 2 months but for some days my chest pain and all other symptoms gets better but comes back after some days ....dr is there anything to worry about or is it cardiophobia.....and also I become tense after hearing some news about heart attack
You may have anxiety sensitivity and are fixating on your heart and interpreting symptoms to be dangerous that are not dangerous. Your cardiologist would have been concerned if you were in any danger. From your description, it sounds like cardiophobia.
I've had cardiophobia since 11 years old now i'm 17 it went away for some time when i went to the doctor but now it's come back. I'm extremely afraid of heart attacks and right now i feel like i'm having one all the time . I feel discomfort in my chest, nausea, back pain,tingling in the face,hands feets and i get sensitive about eberything linked with it. Is unbearable
My palpitations which I've had for the past 5 years are now replaced by a feeling of heaviness across my chest but with the focus on the region around the heart. Several ECG s have shown nothing. I've not had a full 7 hour sleep for ages...I need help....!!!!
Hi, so I had anxiety for two years now and had panic attacks during this period, there were times where I felt well while I was taking anxiety medication letting you know that I have death fear and I think I unconsciously focused on my heart for quite some time and now I haven't taken any medications for 6 months now and for about 3 weks from now I started getting bad panic attacks with shortness of breath and I almost experience it everyday and I don't sleep well but now I experienced tightness in chest and felt as if my heart wasn't beating but for a very short time I don't even remember how long but it's less than 5 minutes but I had several mild panic attacks after it and I am scared it's heart related and that I might have a heart attak plz do tell what you think
Anxiety and panic cause the heart to beat more rapidly because your brain believes you are in danger and may need that extra energy to run or fight. It is a normal symptom of anxiety. If you continue to fear your heart racing or palpating, you will panic more. Assuming this is normal anxiety or panic that you are experiencing, nothing about panic or anxiety or your racing heart is dangerous or harmful. Just allow and welcome the symptoms as they are normal and natural.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy so I just had an ECG. And it's normal but I still feel tightness in chest and feel like my heartbeats are abnormal (should I stop worrying)
Hello Paige I have an arrhythmia which keeps sending me to A and E recently. The hospital says there is a physical reason for the arrhythmias because my troponin levels were elevated. Something to do with the electrical pathways not heart disease. I also suffer with very bad health anxiety. Do you think the anxiety will contribute towards the irregular heartbeats as I’m living in fear all the time. I’m so scared.
I am so sorry that is happening. You will of course need more information from a cardiologist to understand how much is due to anxiety versus a functional problem. Stress and anxiety are known to increase arrhythmias but first, you will need to sort out the medical issue and see what recommendations may help you.
I do not imagine it is dangerous, but I am not a physician. Most people with health anxiety experience heightened anxiety when taking a medication until they become convinced the medication is not harming them in some way.
Once you are evaluated by your physician, you will want to practice techniques of ERP, exposure and response prevention. I have a health anxiety program and a panic course that I recommend for people with cardiophobia on paigepradko.com
There can be medically related conditions. I thought I was having cardiaphobia until I was diagnosed with Hyper PoTs. I get surges of noradrenaline that cause either tachycardia or ectopics beats. I think everyone with distinct spells of palpitations should have their catecholamines checked out. The anxiety is caused by this condition. Also pheochromocytoma causes this. Get checked!
I didn't want to take the ivabradine and fludrocortisone drugs they prescribed so I am trying salt and extra fluids. But I do admit my thoughts add anxiety on top as I fear my symptoms so your tips are great. Thanks! @@PaigePradkoTherapy
I am so sorry for all that happened and all that you have endured. You have been through so much. Anyone would develop ptsd from that experience. Thank you for sharing and I hope that you continue to heal.
I've had this ever since my hiatal hernia was diagnosed over 2 years ago. I fear it is my heart due to family history. The heart palpitations are very real, the heart pounding is real and also so is the chest tightness, the arm sensations and jaw and shoulder stuff.but by this time over 2 years I would've had 1,000+ heart attacks by now?
2 years back I have confirmed that I have a mild mitral valve prolapse. My doctor suggested to take propranolol hydrochloride daily 1-1-1 times 20mg. Now I come to 0-0-1 10mg daily. But I have even experiencing the symptoms. My doctor told it not bothersome. I can't control my thoughts. I just think that I will passed away.
I have cardiophobia but I had documented SVT before its goes sooooo fast. They had to administer adenosine. Its been 7 years since then and im terrified daily its going to come back and kill me 😢 Im 33 year old male. I had loop recorder and EP study that couldn't induce my SVT. Any reassurance? :(
Yes stress does cause lots of problems with your heart rate fast heart rate slow heart rate anxiety you name it but so does left ventricle hydropathy that is a real thing stiffness of the heart on the left side it will cause heart rate problems it's not imaginary lots of cardiologists do say it's all anxiety when sometimes it's really not
@@PaigePradkoTherapyHello there. Everything you’ve said you’re absolutely correct. I have Ectopics/PVS’s periodically. I’ve had every test ran and everything was normal. Question: Do you think Magnesium Glycinate will help? I’ve heard a lot about it and how it helps tremendously. Thanks and I look forward to hearing from you 🙏🏾
@@DesmondClark-ye8eo , I am not a physician, but am an anxiety specialist. In my opinion, I don’t think it would hurt. But learning how to desensitize yourself to what you feel in your body is key. If you are interested in how to do this, I cover how to desensitize in my courses at paigepradko.com, specifically the health anxiety and panic bundle for people with cardiophobia.
👉👉👉 Do you have Health Anxiety?
Health anxiety self assessment
www.paigepradko.com/healthanxietyquiz
👉👉👉 PDF: Why Do I Feel That in my Body? Explanations of Bodily Symptoms Due to Anxiety, Stress and Panic
www.paigepradko.com/bodyanxiety
👉👉👉 Health Anxiety Course
www.paigepradko.com/healthanxiety
👉👉👉 Health Anxiety/Panic Course BUNDLE: Recommended for Cardiophobia:
www.paigepradko.com/offers/sRprF2oF
My symptoms
Left or right side arm pain
Weired pinching sensations in my chest
Gerd, reflux
Neck pain
Crazy heart beats
I wnt to pretty much go the the er or doctor for reassurance daily 😭
Had cardiac wrk up, my heart is perfectly healthy, still scared something is being missed. YALL ARE NOT ALONE 🫂
😢❤️ Symptoms can be so uncomfortable and even painful and yet not be harmful or dangerous. I hope those symptoms ease up for you.
Can u tell me how it's started?
Look up the Dare Response. Those are all anxiety symptoms.
Stress and emotions CAN change the heart physically. In other words you may not necessarily have a phobia.
1. The release of stress or emotion hormones can temporarily alter the heart muscle and surrounding tissue (pericardium) without doing any long term harm, causing the same kind of symptoms as ischemic heart disease (physical narrowing or blockage in arteries). This microscopic damage caused hormonally by stress or emotion is not usually detectable or picked up by medical tests - hence the frequent conclusion that the problem is phobic or in the head. Scary heart symptoms reslting as a result of these slight alterations to the heart tissue can be alarming, even mimicking a heart attack and therefore cause a sudden flood of additionl stress hormones, making the situation spiral, or become chronic over days or weeks. The resulting fear can also result in a panic attack attack, which can also mimic ischemic heart disease.
2. The coranary heart arteries sometimes spasm for NO REASON whatsoever when the person affected is at rest. In other words not as a direct result of stress or upset (at least on a conscious level). This condition has many names, such as Prinzmetal angina. Once again it is hard for doctors to detect. It is not life threatening, unless there is also ischemic (physical blopckage) heart disease, which would definitely be picked up by tests.
Before modern tests were available people with any kind of heart pain often became sedentary (thinking this would protect the heart) and subsequently overweight from the resulting inactivity. Ironically, this can lead to genuine atherosclerosis and ischemic heart disease.
3. Emotional stress such as a break-up can cause the heart to temporarily change shape, and therefore cause distressing symptoms - known as Broken Heart Syndrome. This was first recognised by doctors a few decades ago. Once again the heart is not permenantly damaged (as far as we know) and symptoms usually last just a few weeks or months, resolving when the person gets over the mental trauma that led to the problem. Like Prinzmetal Angina, it can sometimes occur spontaniously, i.e. without any emotional stimulus.
The way to recover from/avoid these mind related heart conditions is to learn to avoid over-stimulating the adrenal glands - where stress related hormones are released - in other words, avoid acute and chronic stress. Also avoid long periods of stimulus, such as indulging in low grade excitement, e.g. spending long periods of time worked up by social media or getting involved in controversial discussions etc. Exercise on a daily basis - eg. long walks. Become a more passive, 'right brained' person (read novels, watch films, do yoga, mediation, sing, play an instrument, listen to music, aromatherapy etc.) become more philosophical. If there is worry, upset or uncertainty in your life, try and be as positive as possible, and remember the proverb:
'Change what you can and accept what you can't.'
Read up on electrolytes as they can go out of balance and cause temporary heart problems.
Keep away from devices that have a strong magnetic field - such as massage chairs.
Isometric excercises can cause temporary heart issues in some people.
If you've been checked out for physical heart disease - it's safe to ignore heart issues. Easier said than done, e.g. if you have stabbing pains, heavy heart beats, crushing chest feeling etc. Know that you are not alone and the heart sometimes plays up like this. It's safe to get on with your life.
.
i love you 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
God bless you for sharing this
This is such a beautiful post. Just starting to push through and get my life back after 3 months of hell. It did force me to get heart tests done and they found very earlier and minor plaque build up. So it’s a blessing as I can make adjustments to ensure it’s not a problem later. But no one could explain the physical anxiety I was dealing with , as well as chest pain, back pain , tingling the whole works. God bless you ☺️🙏
Stress is different than Anxiety and yes Stress and cause cardio issues.
I love your videos. I have a lot of cardiophobia. I'm only 19 years old and all my doctors tell me I'm fine and won't even do tests because they are so sure I'm fine. I have been the the ER for a panic attack where my heart rate was 157 and my blood pressure was 140/90 because I was having such a bad panic attack. They took and EKG and saw absolutely nothing wrong with me. I check my pulse constantly and I get so anxious because of my pulse which makes the symptoms worse and it becomes a cycle. Your voice is so calming and hearing nothing is wrong with you physically your ok, it's your anxiety helps so much
I can relate to your comment because I ended up in the ER, thinking I was having a heart attack when I was 22 years old. It is important to understand once we have been medically evaluated that those symptoms are not harmful or dangerous. You do not need to check anything and monitoring only makes it worse in the long run. I hope that you can live your life and let go of those fears and self monitoring.
I'm 59 years of age and over the last 20 years I have had the same problem. Been to the ER countless times over the years since about the age of 37. I've seen my HR get as high as 184bpm and blood pressure upwards of 210/113. I was admitted to the hospital for 3 days running all kinds of tests and turns out I am very fit. They even did a full body CT scan with contrast to check all my organs including heart and vessels and nothing was wrong except for a couple of spots of minimal plaque on my aorta which the cardiologist said was excellent since I was 58 at the time most people are full of plaque. So, even with all the reassurance over the years I still find myself checking my HR and blood pressure. I face my fears and exercise but it is horrible because I am constantly thinking about my heart. Okay, so what started all this? Well I had a dizzy spell when I was 37 and went to my primary care physician and he did an EKG in his office. He called a couple of days later and told me to stop exercising because there was an abnormality on my EKG. When I asked what it was, he said my heart could suddenly stop. I didn't see how that could be because I had been exercising since the age of 13 in martial arts, and started lifting weights and doing extensive cardiovascular exercise since the age of 18. I was super fit, very athletic, lean, and yet he told me my heart could stop. So, guess what I did? Everything I felt that was related to heart drove me over the edge and off to the hospital I went. The hospital at that time did a series of tests and said nothing was wrong and when I told them about what my previous doc told me, they said there was no way. They told me to go home and carry on with life. However, in the back of my mind I kept thinking they missed something because I was still feeling dizzy especially when I would exercise even before the doc told me about my heart could stop. So, I stopped all exercise and basically became cautious of everything I did. I stopped martial arts, weight training, and everything that had to do with getting my heart rate up. I became obsessed with the human body and started taking biology classes, medical school, the whole 9 yards. Trained in sports medicine, functional medicine, and integrative medicine with a specialty in endocrinology and hematology. Guess what my first interest was? You guessed it - cardiology. I spent years training in cardiology as well. Okay, let's fast forward to today so I can tell you what I found out my problem was regarding the dizziness. I was in a severe accident at the age of 19 that resulted in whiplash which resulted in what is referred to as military neck with cervical instability which results in cervicogenic dizziness ALL related to the NECK. I basically lost the natural curve in my neck which caused irritation of the vagus nerve which caused a host of problems with mainly dizziness. So, what was the problem with the EKG? I got a copy of the test results from the docs and all the hospitals I was admitted to over the years and it was NOTHING. Well, almost. Without getting too technical, I basically had an athletic heart and it was showing a T wave abnormality on the EKG. However, if the physician KNEW what he was doing, he would have never said it was an abnormality for someone MY AGE and athleticism as MOST athletes show the same abnormality. It is ONLY an abnormality in older adults that are NOT athletic or active. Too much to go into here, BUT to think I got into the medical field so I could learn everything about the human body because I was afraid of my body! How ironic! So, even to this day and I know everything is fine, I still find myself checking my HR and blood pressure at least once per week even though my BP this afternoon was 114/74 which is perfection. Mine is OCD related and it is something that I need to drive out of my subconscious mind. My conscious mind KNOWS nothing is wrong, BUT the subconscious mind is the driving force behind every decision you make in life. Well, most every decision. Anyways, I will stop here, but thought I would share my experience and journey. One thing I have done is turn my misery into something good by being able to help thousands of men and women over the years with their own medical issues. Wishing you well!
@@Total_Body_Fitness_USAvery helpful comment.
I was just having palpitations and cardio phobia before seeing this. After seeing this, my life has changed. I'm from Uganda and I've been experiencing heart related anxiety.
Hi there loving people. It's amazing how many of us are suffering from these cardiophobia . I'm have been several times to ER . I'm from SA I'm 39 . I have been doing all of the above . My story is hectic . I have a defib device in me and I had been shocked 20times about 3 months ago . I stayed in hospital for 3 weeks and I was so afraid to go home . The hospital is about 1/2 hr away from me . Gosh I can't even continue coz I don't feel good describing this to u guys . Thank you Paige . I will listen to this recordings over n over so it becomes part of my brain.
Hi Karishma, thank you for sharing your story with us. It takes immense courage to open up about such personal struggles. Your strength and resilience are truly inspiring. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and there is support available to you. You've already shown incredible bravery, and I believe in your ability to overcome this challenge. Take care of yourself, and know that there are people rooting for you every step of the way.
Everyone said in this video describes my experience to a tee, including the delayed reaction to stress, where these symptoms show up a few days later after something stressful happens.
Iv had this since 2014 , I don't know why it won't go away 😢
2011 here 🎉
Paige, it's like you read my mind when you made this video. I'm 46, went to the doctor for hearth beating fast and skipped beats. I checked out fine, but I kept worrying, taking less risks, and even stopped going to the gym, being scared of stairs, or doing anything demanding of my heart.
I've taken your health anxiety course and have been seeing constant improvement over the last 3 weeks. In fact I just got back from a gym session doing cardio and lifting weights and am feeling great. The heart thumps and flutters have diminished and I feel more in control if I get a twinge or a weird feeling. Being able to tell myself 'oh well' and actively working on not overthinking about every little sensation is very difficult at first, but eventually it subsides, especially after nonstop monitoring that I was doing with my Fitbit and Blood Pressure monitors.
I really can't thank you enough. The work that you're doing on your channel has helped me so incredibly much and I'm sure others as well. Bless you! Sending all the love from San Diego!
I am so happy to hear about your progress. It is difficult to face your fear head on, but you are on the path to recovery. Keep doing what you are doing. And thank you so much for sharing. I hope your comment inspires others as well. ❤️
May I share your comment? I believe so many can relate to your experience. 😊
Absolutely, glad to be of any help I can!
@@therotmaw877, Thank you 🙏
Out of all the videos I've watched online about health anxiety, I can just relate to yours on another level, even watching the videos can really seem to calm my anxiety down, I've made some efforts to start exposing myself to my fears but its so hard, but i know that I can do it, and that i'm stronger than my anxiety. Some days I feel as if i cant go on no more, or that something catastrophic will happen with my heart, or any other bodily sensation that I feel and hyperfocus on, and it drives me crazy. But I know that i can push past my fears, and so can everyone else, it just takes time.
I’m glad you have resonated with my videos, Sam. Health anxiety is very challenging. Keep reminding yourself that it is health anxiety and focus on what is reality, what you know with certainty and what is probable instead of possible. I often tell my clients that it’s possible that I could get hit with a meteor…it’s possible, but not probable. Health anxiety tries to convince you to believe in the possible instead of the probable. Don’t let it convince you. Stay with the probable. 😊
@@PaigePradkoTherapy Thank you so much Paige.
Thank you so much for this! I’ve been dealing with intense cardiophobia, OCD, and panic attacks for the last couple years off and on. This video made me feel seen and validated what I’ve been going through.
It would be great to interview James so we can listen to his story and recovery.
Thankyou for this! It’s the best explanation summary and advice I’ve seen, or read on this subject. Like yourself, I know how debilitating this can be. In my case they began with a sudden episode of Atrial Fibrillation a decade ago. After several sudden tachycardia episodes and several more visits to A & E (E.R…I’m British!), I was told my heart was “OK”, but it never felt “quite right” after that initial event. So that began to manifest in me losing trust in my (NHS) GP and the cardiologist (who fobbed me off after a 5 minute chat). Since then, I’ve tried to help myself, instead of relying on our struggling state health system, here in England. I’ve tried to improve my diet. It has actually improved things. I rarely get the “panic attacks” (if that’s what they ever were!) now. I often got them when just in a shop, or out walking, but mainly at night, just as I was nodding off. The heart would start pounding and I was convinced I was about to have a heart attack. Then I’d start shaking all over and be sat for hours on the toilet with “reactive” bowel issues. It was horrible. But I still haven’t overcome my fear of “pushing” my heart. I was a very active young man. Now, at 63, I hardly even go for a leisurely stroll…but the weird thing is that I still manage to do my job…I’m a skinny, self-employed gardener. Go figure! All in the mind, or what?!
Ah, you have my dream job, a skinny, self-employed gardener. Lol. I am glad you like the video and hope it is helpful. Isn’t that interesting that a leisurely stroll might trigger your fear, but gardening does not.
I salute you, for made this video, I am in recovery from anxiety,, i ve experience that heart palpitations that cause more insomnia,, shu,, it's a bad experience. Dr did a ecg and it was normal bt this heart palpitations continue,, what I do, deep breathing,, reassurance that there is no danger,, i m encourages anyone going thru this problem not to give up,, they will recover,, have hope and pray❤
I hope that you heal as well and just allow anxiety and your palpitations to do whatever they wish…knowing deep down that you are safe. ❤️
Hi there, I just found your youtube channel. Thank you for the information! I have been officially diagnosed with atrial fibrilation and mitral valve prolapse/regurgitation this year and I had a stroke in 2022. I have been dealing with health anxiety for a little over a year. It comes and goes and has not been fun at all! What is hard for me is knowing that I truly do have a medical condition and being able to tell when symptoms might truly be related to my diagnosed conditions or if it's just health anxiety being the culprit. I don't want to blow off symptoms as anxiety when it might be something I should be legitimately concerned about. I appreciate the info you are sharing with us and will continue to be open to learning all I can regarding what's going on with me.
Mine is getting worse and worse , it’s every day now. I’m my last bloods showed my white blood cell count and platelets were high , so anxiety and stress are now in fact making me ill. I get fever, I have tension all over, I can’t seem to shake the fact it could be anxiety and always have that small 5 per cent thought of it is serious. I’ve tried everything. I think I might just have to go on medication , there is nothing more I can do. I eat well I excercise I fast. I just can’t get the thoughts out of my head
I’m so sorry, Ryan. If you need support, I have programs and a support community available at paigepradko.com
I’ve been experiencing cardiophobia since april of 2023. For the first few months, I would be in a constant state of panic, high heart rate after slight movement, and even had left arm sensation and chest pains. I can’t visit a doctor, and I really want to. But after those few months, my anxiety isn’t as bad as as it use to be. But sometimes I will get random symptoms like chest pains, or arm sensations. And I will be in an anxiety state. I just want this to go away, I don’t wanna experience this no more
I am so sorry. It sounds like you have not been to a doctor. I hope that you are able to see a doctor soon.
Same
Go to the doctor immediately just to be safe.
Did you see a doctor
How are you doing now?
I have these quite often, and have had the ECG and 24 hour monitor. Every time I feel a flutter, a skip, etc, I feel anxious and then the more I focus on them the worse they get.
Yes, that’s exactly what happens.
I have this downloaded for when I'm having an attack ❤
I’ve had ectopic heart beats since I was about 19 years old, I’m 41 now and until recently have never been able to go through with an appointment at the doctors through fear of what they will tell me.
I also have OCD which when I look back I started noticing symptoms of around the same time as my palpations.
I’m now in therapy for my OCD, which can bring so much anxiety leading to a vicious cycle but for the first one I actually went to the doctors about my palpitations.
She listened, she heard them, she took my blood pressure which she said was really good, and made an appointment for me to have an ECG but doesn’t think there is any cause for concern.
I have my ECG coming up this week.
Three years of GERD has produced my soul source of anxiety. Thus why I youtube cardio videos. To make things worse, heart attack videos (meant to educate) are scary and trigger more anxiety.
Sorry you are going through that. I imagine you have sought medical help for GERD but are still having symptoms.
Heart health anxiety has not been the most scary symptom I’ve had with panic disorder and health anxiety but it’s definitely top 2. It is very annoying but I would say the scariest symptom I’ve experience was prolonged DR.
Yes, dpdr is a common panic symptom but can be very unsettling for people.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy thankfully I overcame DR!!
This doctor read me like a book
I can control my stress but i can't control the sensitivity...😢
I’ve had this since my 20’s, it’s taken a long time for me to learn to ignore skipped beats. They seem to come in clusters so I know if I wait a month or two they will probably go away.
I admire that you have observed your cycle and how to respond when they show up.
Great video, I have this issue, I just got recommended a pshycologist and just like this patient I didn't take it too well
Yes, that can sometimes feel dismissive.
Thank You.🫀
You are so welcome
Okay, i had these exact same terror. Was frightened for my heart to eventually stop. I got over it !
I am happy that you did. 😊
@@PaigePradkoTherapy thank you 🙏 ❤️
@@yshukla yeah, the way I got over it is is to discover what was behind this fear was death. But what death means for us is the end of us. That is not true at all! After I have watched so many videos on Near death experiences and the mysteries of reincarnation from serious individuals I realized that we dont end when we die. So, I just embraced the fact that my heart might eventually stop along with the anxiety and realized that it happens is NOT going to stop me from existing. You and I will exist for ever my friend whether you chose to believe me or not ❤️
Thanks for the work you do to help people!
It’s my pleasure. Thank you 😊
Hey i wanna ask if its possible to have an anxiety about the way you breathe? I mean I'm breathing but i feel like its shalow and I'm not satisfied with it.. but i also have health anxiety so i want to know if that's connected somehow
I am not sure if you saw this video. I have the same problem and yes, it is a type of OCD called sensorimotor/somatic awareness OCD. It is often experienced by people with health anxiety. th-cam.com/video/0kjFbCy_Sio/w-d-xo.htmlsi=w86uiyMu_yZd2tkS
Thank you so much... Your videos help me alot in these difficult times❤️
Hello doctor. Please excuse my grammar, as I am going to use the translator. I don't usually leave comments, but in this case, I must.
The truth is that I have been struggling with anxiety problems and some related physical problems for years. I began to experience that my heart suddenly dropped, or that a "kick" hit me from inside my chest. I went to the cardiologist and He told me that I had the heart of an 18-year-old person (I'm 41), when I told him about the sensation in my chest he told me "it's nothing." I also asked my endocrinologist (since I suspected it could be due to my hypothyroidism) and he said "it's all in your head." I assumed it wasn't dangerous because the tests came back normal, but the feeling of sudden discomfort got worse. I stopped going out, I lost all my friends, and I separated from my girlfriend because I'm worried all the time and I can't accompany her on walks or outings.
This video most likely just saved my life, not only because it gives me a reason why I feel this way, it also normalizes my experience and I don't feel alone. I understand that the path to improvement is long and involves work, but my anxiety works in the following way: "if the problem is recognizable, the problem has a solution." Anxiety feeds on uncertainty, AND, many times, the solution to the problem It is knowing that there is no danger. Nowadays, living in Argentina is not recommended for people who suffer from anxiety, but your video has helped me greatly to start living better. Encourage me to exercise again to strengthen my heart, maybe go for a walk again, etc.
If ever, for whatever reason, you consider or doubt that these videos are fruitless; Know that today, an adult who has been suffering since he was 18, is writing to you with tears in his eyes, to thank you from the bottom of his heart. I'm sorry I can't meet you and give you a hug... I hope, one day, I have the chance to help someone the way you have helped me.
Now, let's heal!
I am truly sorry you have had to deal with this for so long. It is a challenging condition to deal with. Your message means the world to me. It is one of the most meaningful messages I have received. Thank you so much and I wish you continued healing and happiness. ❤️
As always you are best doctor. I feel like I want to live quality life again.
Thank you. You are on your way to doing just that.❤️
Thank you for such reassurance. I recently had a holter monitor show 6.6% PVCs over seven days. Had EKG, stress echo, and I had an ablation two years ago for SVT, so my EP has been “in” my heart. My cardio and EP both kind of shrugged and said, “It’s just PVCs. You’re fine.” Thing is, they don’t at all feel fine.
I know I am very very anxious about them, as I wake up every day with dread, which I NEVER used to do. But these came on a month ago after a very stressful work week, and I think my anxiety is keeping them around.
Can they still be anxiety-related if they are coming and going? I can go hours without them, I feel super calm and not anxious, and then they come back for a few hours. Rinse and repeat. I just feel like now that I’m calm, why are they coming around again?
I’m going to look into your bundle and see if it might help me. Thank you for this video and for your support.
I am so sorry you are having to deal with those. Yes, they can be exacerbated by stress and anxiety like you experienced. 😢
Same here literally same thing.Are you on medication?
Yes. 50mg metoprolol succinate extended-release.
How long have you had yours?
@@dyannaslund2342 3 years l take atenolol 25mg l have low blood pressure .i did all kind of test even EP study they couldn't find anything abnormal.MRI CT scan stress test all good .Every day is struggle with pvc .The scariest part is when they don't allow me to sleep l fell them while sleeping ,after eating so annoying and scary 😟.my mind is constantly on heart .we are in the same boat 🥹
I can understand how health anxiety and cardiophobia can be called off as harmless, but it really is scary when things like pulmonary oedema exists because of stress. Like, I’m only 19, I’ve been stressed out after an ER visit because of a panic attack caused by Prednisone since about April or May, and ever since then I’ve had palpitations or aches in my arms or head when I don’t even feel stressed. And that whole thing about gaining something awful like pulmonary oedema at 19 because of my cardiophobia or health anxiety? It makes me lose sleep.
Chest and back pain on waking up in the morning. The pain is exactly the same as the pain felt during the first exercise. My ECG, echo, chest x-ray All reports are normal. What causes it? I am from India
Suffering from this right now 😢
Thanks, Paige.👍
You're so welcome!
I forgot☝️I want to ask an important question due to the things you said about magnesium. I did recentley a check up on my magnesium level and it was in normal range (in the middle to be exact). Is it beneficial for me to add magnesium supplement lets say 125 mcg per day OR is it uneccessary because I'm not deficiant? I really hope & wish you want to respond to this. Thank you🙏
I am not a medical doctor and do not give medical advice. But I take magnesium even though I am not deficient. I do not believe it can hurt you to take a magnesium supplement and most cardiologists suggest that their patients take it.
@@PaigePradkoTherapythank you so much for responding🙏 Then I will give it a try! Thank you for your very helpful videos😊
when I lay down or sitting a long time, my heart palpitates when I got up and even when I pee. My ecg is ok but I have anxiety😢
I saw a psychiatrist and he never mentioned this but THIS is what I have. They have told me I'm fine for 25 years. I do have SVT and had to be converted once so my doc says because I have 4 different anxiety disorder and I e had a cardiacevent they coincide. I want to be free of this. I'm in psychotherapy for 7 weeks now.. it's not helping. What else can I do. I want to live not exist. Please u are a godsend. Please help me
I am so sorry you have been dealing with this for so long. When I treat someone with this condition and their cardiac workup is normal, I treat them for panic disorder using interoceptive exposures and I treat them for cardiac related health anxiety using response prevention strategies. I have a 2-course bundle (Health anxiety/Panic course bundle) that when combined successfully treats people with this condition. www.paigepradko.com
So i relapsed in January, took something i shouldn't have, unfortunately that made my triponin raise! Was im hospital for 6 days thought i gad a heart attack turns out i didnt have one, ct scan showed my heart and arteries were perfect, but because of that i now have cardiphobia 😢 littery everyday.i think im going to have a heart attack so frustrating,
Thank you
What makes it worse for me is the thought that it could be harmful in the long term to feel anxious and have my heart racing. Sometimes I can't control or stop these feelings. It gets worse when I think it could harm me in the long term. Is it harmful in the long term to be so nervous all the time and have an increased heart rate? I'm working on my fear but this thought keeps throwing me back
If you feel like you are under constant stress, there are things that you can do to manage your stress level. Things like walking, exercise, yoga, breathing exercises, meditation, etc.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy I meditate, exercise, go to paychotherapy, do Yoga, do breathing exercises and walk on my walking pad every day. This significantly reduces my stress and therefore anxiety. However, I have to work on the idea that my “too high” heart rate is dangerous in the long term. Because I still get this one. My normal pulse is 70, when I have these fears it is 90. As soon as I notice this it is very difficult for me to accept it because I think I have to change it immediately because otherwise it will be dangerous for me, that will make it even worse. But I've now watched your videos and I'm feeling a little better.
Many thanks for your response and sorry for my English, it's not my native language.
Is anyone else hyper focused on the left part of the chest. I often am.
Like sometimes we get this pinching sensation and now I'm just waiting for another. And this being hyper focus manifests into these weird sensation on the left chest. Like how we feel when we're being looked at. But with the left part of my chest.
Hi Paige is me again the the guy in commented in your death anxiety video.
So I figured out that behind death anxiety is the fear of getting heart attacks or cardiac arrest and all of this is linked to a sudden death and I am so scared that I fear of being alone because if I faint no one is going to help me and I am so scared and i can hear my heart beat every time when I sleep always cried and now I am 13 years old and even though
is rare that sudden death happens but i am still scared because even famous football players have that so it must happen to me do I think that I always has a big big risk to having that so I need help please 🙏 (sorry for my grammar issues)
I understand your fear, but you are unintentionally scaring your brain, and that will cause you anxiety. Instead, give yourself the message that you are fine. There is no evidence that you have anything wrong with your heart. This is an extremely rare condition you are imagining that you might have. A doctor could confirm that for you, but likely they would not even see a reason to do that. You have to train your brain to not let remote and rare possibilities to scare you and instead stay with probability and reality.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy 🙏
Hi Paige, first time I felt heart palpitations was 6 years ago after a severe panic crisis. The doctor cleared me of any heart problems and I moved on with my life but the palpitation was still there (my body literally palpitates). Somehow I managed to move on regardless maybe by focusing on other symptoms. Recently I had a personal issue that again triggered terrible panic. Suddenly I became aware again of the palpitations and been struggling since then… I was cleared again from heart issues, but I m hyper vigilating and it’s becoming quite an issue because I am afraid of simple things like sitting or laying down because that is when the sensation is clearly felt… what can I do…
I am sorry that happened to you, Eduardo. I have a panic course where I walk you through the steps of what to do to recover from cardiac sensations due to anxiety and panic. www.paigepradko.com/panic
My symptoms include left arm pain and chest pain. Why! Heart rate doesn’t become rapid
You of course should have a cardiac workup to rule out any medical concerns. But healthy people can have those sensations as well.
I get palpitations after eating and when I drink tea . I am 18 yrs old.I am scared and can't even enjoy my life. Pls help me 😢
It is common and normal to feel sensations after eating. Perhaps accepting this as “normal” will help your anxiety to decline.
Hey, I’ve been having some troubles lately. I think I have anxiety because I always have chest pain and think I am going to have a heart attack. I just am looking for help
Chest pain can be triggered by stress and anxiety. But it is impossible to rule out other possibilities without a cardiac workup.
I went to a doctor and had blood tests they all came back ok i then paid a private doctor to give me an ecg he said that this has come back fine. I'm still suffering with the symptoms though and am still worried 😢
It sounds like you are struggling with health anxiety. The health anxiety cycle is fed by having tests and checking symptoms and seeking constant reassurance that you are ok. If you need help, I have more resources at paigepradko.com
Hi paige. I'd love to run a few tests on your cardiac system.
Hope you liked the video.
Given that the heart appears healthy from tests; can stress and cardiac anxiety trigger Afib? Thank you
Hi paige I suffer from health anxiety all my anxiety is around my heart I have a lot off feeling and sensations always on the left side of my chest and something I can feel my heart beating when I am watching the TV I don't do any exercise anymore if I go for a walk I will not walk up any hills also I have a lot off intrusive some of the feelings feel lie I am about to die
Thought
I am so sorry you are limiting your movement due to this fear. I highly recommend that you have an examination so that you can rule out a medical problem. Once you do this, you will need to move again, and increase your heart rate and walk up those hills. It is healthy for a person to feel their heart beat and exercise their heart. This is also the way to face and conquer your fear.
Thankyou for your reply my anxiety gets a lot worse if I have to see a doctor I wil be thinking that there is something wrong
I had a orthostatic hypertension episode one night and now it’s hard to sleep and I got an ecg and they said my heart is beautiful. I have health anxiety but I don’t have palpitations and they’re not sure why I had an hypertension episode but now I make my heart race with my anxiety. What are your thoughts?
I can not speak to the orthostatic hypertension episode. However, it seems that your heart racing is due to anxiety, as you received a positive report about the health of your heart. Given the approval of your physician, you could turn this around with interoceptive exposure training. I have a health anxiety and panic course bundle that would help you to treat both your health anxiety and teach you interoceptive training. You can find out more at paigepradko.com
Hlo dr I am 18 yrs old and I am having some symptoms like mild chest pain back pain arm pain from last two months then I went to cardiologist and he done some tests like 2d echo lipid profile test ECG but everything was normal ....then he suggested me to use inderal la 20 and I am using that from last 2 months but for some days my chest pain and all other symptoms gets better but comes back after some days ....dr is there anything to worry about or is it cardiophobia.....and also I become tense after hearing some news about heart attack
You may have anxiety sensitivity and are fixating on your heart and interpreting symptoms to be dangerous that are not dangerous. Your cardiologist would have been concerned if you were in any danger. From your description, it sounds like cardiophobia.
I've had cardiophobia since 11 years old now i'm 17 it went away for some time when i went to the doctor but now it's come back. I'm extremely afraid of heart attacks and right now i feel like i'm having one all the time . I feel discomfort in my chest, nausea, back pain,tingling in the face,hands feets and i get sensitive about eberything linked with it. Is unbearable
I am sorry that you are feeling all of that discomfort.
What counts as being cleared? I've had 2 er doctors tell me im okay via ekg, xray, and bloodwork.
That sounds like you are cleared unless they specifically recommended that you see a cardiologist.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy they did not.
@@PaigePradkoTherapydoes that tests also clear out pots?
I have this so bad main reason my anxiety and ocd started. always thinking I'm having a heart attack
I have read your comments and am sorry you are struggling with this.
@PaigePradkoTherapy Thanks me too. I hate u got my brain this way. which I can flip it off
Please help. I’ve been like this for 4 years. Been so bad I’ve gone to the psych ward twice
My palpitations which I've had for the past 5 years are now replaced by a feeling of heaviness across my chest but with the focus on the region around the heart. Several ECG s have shown nothing. I've not had a full 7 hour sleep for ages...I need help....!!!!
I am so sorry. 😥
Hi, so I had anxiety for two years now and had panic attacks during this period, there were times where I felt well while I was taking anxiety medication letting you know that I have death fear and I think I unconsciously focused on my heart for quite some time and now I haven't taken any medications for 6 months now and for about 3 weks from now I started getting bad panic attacks with shortness of breath and I almost experience it everyday and I don't sleep well but now I experienced tightness in chest and felt as if my heart wasn't beating but for a very short time I don't even remember how long but it's less than 5 minutes but I had several mild panic attacks after it and I am scared it's heart related and that I might have a heart attak plz do tell what you think
Anxiety and panic cause the heart to beat more rapidly because your brain believes you are in danger and may need that extra energy to run or fight. It is a normal symptom of anxiety. If you continue to fear your heart racing or palpating, you will panic more. Assuming this is normal anxiety or panic that you are experiencing, nothing about panic or anxiety or your racing heart is dangerous or harmful. Just allow and welcome the symptoms as they are normal and natural.
@@PaigePradkoTherapy so I just had an ECG. And it's normal but I still feel tightness in chest and feel like my heartbeats are abnormal (should I stop worrying)
Hello Paige
I have an arrhythmia which keeps sending me to A and E recently. The hospital says there is a physical reason for the arrhythmias because my troponin levels were elevated. Something to do with the electrical pathways not heart disease. I also suffer with very bad health anxiety. Do you think the anxiety will contribute towards the irregular heartbeats as I’m living in fear all the time. I’m so scared.
I am so sorry that is happening. You will of course need more information from a cardiologist to understand how much is due to anxiety versus a functional problem. Stress and anxiety are known to increase arrhythmias but first, you will need to sort out the medical issue and see what recommendations may help you.
Tachycardia put me in the ER. Scary as hell! They had to give me an injection to slow my heart rate. The mind/ body connection is real.
That sounds scary. Sorry you went through that.
Is there a medication you can take for this?
There are some medications that cardiologists may suggest like beta blockers.
Does anyone notice pulsing in the neck causing by anxiety
Im on the medication called inderal. Wheneber 6 hours passes after my morning dose,i feel panicky and makes me palpitate. Is this dangerous
I do not imagine it is dangerous, but I am not a physician. Most people with health anxiety experience heightened anxiety when taking a medication until they become convinced the medication is not harming them in some way.
I'm suffering from cardiophobia since 10 months n still I'm suffering with anxiety and fear.. What should I do?
Once you are evaluated by your physician, you will want to practice techniques of ERP, exposure and response prevention. I have a health anxiety program and a panic course that I recommend for people with cardiophobia on paigepradko.com
There can be medically related conditions. I thought I was having cardiaphobia until I was diagnosed with Hyper PoTs. I get surges of noradrenaline that cause either tachycardia or ectopics beats. I think everyone with distinct spells of palpitations should have their catecholamines checked out. The anxiety is caused by this condition. Also pheochromocytoma causes this. Get checked!
Yes. Important advice. The first step is to be evaluated. Thank you for sharing your experience. How are you treating your POTS?
I didn't want to take the ivabradine and fludrocortisone drugs they prescribed so I am trying salt and extra fluids. But I do admit my thoughts add anxiety on top as I fear my symptoms so your tips are great. Thanks! @@PaigePradkoTherapy
I am so sorry for all that happened and all that you have endured. You have been through so much. Anyone would develop ptsd from that experience. Thank you for sharing and I hope that you continue to heal.
@@PaigePradkoTherapyhow does pots get recognized? I have done all sort of tests from the cardiologist. I really hope I don’t have it.
There is a test that doctors can do to rule out POTS.
I've had this ever since my hiatal hernia was diagnosed over 2 years ago. I fear it is my heart due to family history. The heart palpitations are very real, the heart pounding is real and also so is the chest tightness, the arm sensations and jaw and shoulder stuff.but by this time over 2 years I would've had 1,000+ heart attacks by now?
I’m so sorry you are experiencing all of that. 😢
@@PaigePradkoTherapy I appreciate that so much.
Plandemic anxiety is real.
Hi mam. Can I speak personal
Yes. You may send me a comment at paigepradko.com 😊
2 years back I have confirmed that I have a mild mitral valve prolapse. My doctor suggested to take propranolol hydrochloride daily 1-1-1 times 20mg. Now I come to 0-0-1 10mg daily. But I have even experiencing the symptoms. My doctor told it not bothersome. I can't control my thoughts. I just think that I will passed away.
Mam plz reply my comment please 😢😢😢😢
Yes, of course 😊
Is anyone else worried or scared because of the covid vaccine?
Life in this modern age is making us sick. It’s GOT to change NOW. We are being fed garbage and told it is our choice to do so. What bs
Feed yourself healthy and stfu
I have cardiophobia but I had documented SVT before its goes sooooo fast. They had to administer adenosine. Its been 7 years since then and im terrified daily its going to come back and kill me 😢
Im 33 year old male.
I had loop recorder and EP study that couldn't induce my SVT.
Any reassurance? :(
Yes stress does cause lots of problems with your heart rate fast heart rate slow heart rate anxiety you name it but so does left ventricle hydropathy that is a real thing stiffness of the heart on the left side it will cause heart rate problems it's not imaginary lots of cardiologists do say it's all anxiety when sometimes it's really not
It’s important to have a cardiac workup to rule that out.
Can I just say that you look absolutely gorgeous!! Va Va Voom!! Brains, Beauty and a great person…. A triple threat!! ❤
Wow. You just made my day. Thank you 😂 😊
@@PaigePradkoTherapy 💚💚
@@PaigePradkoTherapyHello there. Everything you’ve said you’re absolutely correct. I have Ectopics/PVS’s periodically. I’ve had every test ran and everything was normal. Question: Do you think Magnesium Glycinate will help? I’ve heard a lot about it and how it helps tremendously. Thanks and I look forward to hearing from you 🙏🏾
@@DesmondClark-ye8eo , I am not a physician, but am an anxiety specialist. In my opinion, I don’t think it would hurt. But learning how to desensitize yourself to what you feel in your body is key. If you are interested in how to do this, I cover how to desensitize in my courses at paigepradko.com, specifically the health anxiety and panic bundle for people with cardiophobia.