Getting Infrequent Episodes Of Light Headedness, Increased Heart Rate And Panic Attacks. Any Thoughts?

Posted on Thu, 18 Oct 2012

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 Answered on

Thu, 8 Nov 2012 Last reviewed on

Question : I am a healthy male 49 who has infrequent episodes of discomfort. I can be standing or sitting a get a "sudden rush" resulting in light headedness, increased heart rate, gastric reflux and panic. I have had multiple ecg, stress test including nuclear test within 18 months all clear. Any thoughts

Answered by Dr. Muhammad Ishfaq Habib (2 hours later)

Hi
Thanks for the query.

As you have stated the reports for the different cardiac studies have revealed normal reports which excludes any cardiac disease. The symptoms in spite of the normal cardiac profile is most likely seems to be anxiety neuritis and panic disorders which can cause and can result from gastric reflux. Further it manifests symptoms like palpitations and increased heart rate along with dizziness. These symptoms come and go.

The condition is treatable with medication like alprazolam and antidepressants. Along with medication regular physical activity is quite helpful in releasing nature anxiolytic substances in body. Involvement in social gatherings and conversations are also helpful

IF you still have some query, feel free to ask.

Thanks
Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E