Is Your Heart Driving Your Anxiety, or Is Anxiety Driving Your Heart Palpitations?
Many people wonder whether their racing heart is caused by stress and anxiety or if something deeper is happening with their heart. The truth is, the mind and heart are closely connected. Sometimes anxiety triggers a rapid heartbeat, while in other cases, a heart rhythm problem causes sensations that make you feel anxious.
At 14 Street Medical Arts, our cardiology specialists use advanced testing and compassionate care to uncover the true cause of your symptoms, bringing you peace of mind and lasting relief.
When Heart Problems Trigger Anxiety
Sometimes anxiety is your body’s reaction to a real heart rhythm disturbance. Conditions such as arrhythmias, heart valve problems, or electrolyte imbalances can cause irregular heartbeats that feel unsettling or alarming.
In these cases, the physical symptoms come first, and the anxiety follows. A skipped or pounding heartbeat can trigger worry or fear, which in turn worsens the sensations. That’s why it’s important not to assume all palpitations are just anxiety. A medical evaluation helps rule out dangerous causes and ensures you receive the right care.
Tests to Determine the Cause
At 14 Street Medical Arts, we offer advanced on-site testing to determine whether your heart or anxiety is the root cause of your symptoms.
Common diagnostic tests include:
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Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Measures your heart’s electrical activity and detects arrhythmias.
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Echocardiogram: Uses ultrasound to visualize the structure and function of the heart.
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Holter Monitor or Event Recorder: Records your heartbeat over 24 hours or longer to identify irregular rhythms.
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Blood Tests: Check thyroid, electrolyte, and hormone levels that may influence heart rate.
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Stress Testing: Evaluates how your heart performs during physical activity.
These tests help our team distinguish anxiety-related palpitations from heart rhythm disorders and provide clarity for your diagnosis.
Managing Anxiety-Related Palpitations
If anxiety is driving your heart palpitations, lifestyle and behavioral strategies can help calm your body and mind. Effective approaches include deep breathing exercises, mindfulness techniques, regular physical activity, adequate sleep and hydration, limiting caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine, and therapy or counseling for chronic anxiety or panic disorders.
Our internal medicine and behavioral health providers at 14 Street Medical Arts work together to design a personalized plan to manage anxiety and reduce palpitations safely.
When to See a Doctor
You should seek medical attention if you experience palpitations that occur frequently or last several minutes, chest pain, dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath, fatigue, or if you have a family history of heart disease or arrhythmia. Early evaluation ensures that serious heart problems are identified and treated before complications occur.
Why Choose 14 Street Medical Arts
At 14 Street Medical Arts, our team combines advanced heart testing with whole-person care. We understand that anxiety and heart symptoms often overlap, and we’re equipped to address both.
Our comprehensive services include on-site ECG and Echocardiogram testing, Holter monitoring for ongoing evaluation, and collaboration between cardiology, internal medicine, and behavioral health specialists. We provide accurate diagnosis, compassionate care, and clear treatment options all in one convenient location.
Insurances We Accept
At 14 Street Medical Arts, we believe everyone deserves access to high-quality medical care. We accept a wide range of insurance plans and are happy to help patients understand their benefits.
We accept Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield (including Empire BCBS), Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, EmblemHealth (formerly GHI), Healthfirst, Fidelis Care, Molina Healthcare, 1199SEIU, Medicare, Medicaid, and Workers’ Compensation and No-Fault Insurance.
If your plan is not listed, please call our office. Our staff can verify your coverage and answer any questions before your appointment.
Your Care, Covered and Convenient
Our goal is to make healthcare affordable and stress-free. Whether you’re visiting for a heart evaluation, diagnostic testing, or a routine checkup, our billing specialists will help ensure your insurance plan covers your visit whenever possible.
We also offer same-day and next-day appointments, on-site diagnostic imaging, and direct coordination with insurance providers for authorizations and referrals.
Take Control of Your Heart and Mind
Don’t let uncertainty or anxiety control your life. Schedule your appointment with 14 Street Medical Arts today for a comprehensive evaluation of your heart palpitations and personalized care for both your heart and overall well-being.
14 Street Medical Arts — Caring for Your Heart, Mind, and Health.
