DIAGNOSIS

[DazzyB]

Does anybody know what the difference is between Atrial fibrillation and a Panic Attack?

[stevejb1810]

A panic attack is an experience of sudden and intense fear, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as a racing heart, rapid breathing, or upset stomach. Some research suggests that 13.2% of people have experienced a panic attack at some point in their lives.

In atrial fibrillation, the heart's upper chambers (atria) contract randomly and sometimes so fast that the heart muscle cannot relax properly between contractions. This reduces the heart's efficiency and performance. Atrial fibrillation happens when abnormal electrical impulses suddenly start firing in the atria.

Don’t know if this helps but these are the definitions. I guess what you are asking is could one be interpreted as the other I.e. could atrial fibrillation be read as a panic attack. You’d need an expert to tell you that

[DazzyB in reply to stevejb1810]

Thanks Steve. I have had all those symptoms where I get palpitations then heart goes erratic. Been unable to catch it on an ecg to date. One cardiologist believes anxiety/panic other thinks afib.

Couldn't cope anymore after 7 months of hell so im on Bisoprolol to break any cycle. I do worry I might need Ablation

later. Cheers

[Philippa_BHF]

Hi DazzyB,

It sounds as if you may be on a bit of a vicious circle. If someone experiences panic attacks they can be very aware of the symptoms mentioned previously. It common to have palpitations,shortness of breath and chest pain, but AF itself would need to be diagnosed through an ECG.

Doing a manual pulse check( which you would need to take for a full minute) can help in finding out if the heartbeat is irregular. If your heart rate and rhythm were normal with the original ECG reading, you may need to be monitored over a longer period of time( 24- 48 hours is common,sometimes longer).

Some people have episodes that come and go, so as you say picking it up off the back off a series of single ECGs won't help. Your GP will be able to arrange the tests for you. It's important not to diagnose yourself and cause concern over treatments when there's no evidence to suggest it at the moment.

You may find the beta blockers help with the panic attacks and will slow your heartbeat down, but you may want to try some relaxation techniques to see if they help too.

Please feel free to ring the heart helpline( 0300-330-3311) to speak to one of the cardiac nurses if you want to talk this through any more. There's someone to speak to Monday- Friday from 9-5.

I hope I've helped.

Take Care.

Philippa