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Dr. Andrew Rynne

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Increased Heartbeat, Panic Disorder, Overweight, Cholesterol 160

My heartbeat will suddenly raise for sometimes no reason and after exercise which is not unusual. Last night I woke up with a racing heartbeat at 3:30 am out of a dead sleep. I have panic disorder , I see a psychiatrist , I m just not convinced it is not my heart. ( hence the psychiatrist) I am 41, good blood pressure, I take Lipitor and cholesterol is about 160. I m a bit overweight but this is an all of a sudden thing. I checked my blood sugar, it is good too? It is literally making me crazy! Could all of this be panic attacks. I also went to ER 2 weeks ago with a 140 pulse. Okay EKG, enzymes good.. Feeling like its just me!!!
posted on Sun, 1 Apr 2012
Twitter Mon, 29 Oct 2012 Answered on
Twitter Tue, 30 Oct 2012 Last reviewed on
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response

Hello and welcome to Healthcare Magic. Thanks for your query.

The sudden increase in heart rate could very well due to panic attacks. About 10% of people with panic disorder present with nocturnal panic attacks. Remember, anxiety can manifest itself with not only psychological symptoms, but with physical symptoms also. If you are having recurrent such symptoms or having difficulty managing your stress, then I would advise you consult a psychiatrist for a detailed psychological assessment and further treatment. There are effective treatment options - in the form of medication or counselling / psychotherapy which will help you overcome your problems.

Wish you all the best.

- Dr. Jonas Sundarakumar
Consultant Psychiatrist




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Increased Heartbeat, Panic Disorder, Overweight, Cholesterol 160

Hello and welcome to Healthcare Magic. Thanks for your query. The sudden increase in heart rate could very well due to panic attacks. About 10% of people with panic disorder present with nocturnal panic attacks. Remember, anxiety can manifest itself with not only psychological symptoms, but with physical symptoms also. If you are having recurrent such symptoms or having difficulty managing your stress, then I would advise you consult a psychiatrist for a detailed psychological assessment and further treatment. There are effective treatment options - in the form of medication or counselling / psychotherapy which will help you overcome your problems. Wish you all the best. - Dr. Jonas Sundarakumar Consultant Psychiatrist