Can panic disorder cause an arrhythmia?

Question

I wonder if panic disorder can cause abnormal heart beats, as when I have a panic attack, I can feel my chest pounding out of control. This can't be healthy- can this lead to heart problems like an arrhythmia?

Answer 1

Panic disorder does not cause arrythmias. However, there is an association between panic disorder and the occurrence of mitral valve prolapse, which is the improper closure of the valve located between the upper and lower compartments of the heart. Mitral valve prolapse can cause chest pounding and irregular heartbeat.

If you have panic disorder and abnormal heart beats and chest pounding, then you should visit your doctor for a full examination of your cardiac status.