Are my physical symptoms a result of panic?

Can you help me. Every now and again I get a racing heart. It happens approximately 10 days apart so it's not a regular daily thing.

It comes for no apparent reason; suddenly I have a speedy heart for about 2 minutes. I feel nauseaus and I then panic a bit and get hot. I then cannot relax and get myself in a state. I find as I worry, it gets worse.

I sometimes get a tingling down my right arm and foot, but not always. I am 45. I do not think I am generally an anxious person but I am always checking my heart rate and I wonder if I bring it on myself sometimes.

Does this sound familiar? I have been to the doctors, who got in touch with a cardiologist and he said that as it was symptomatic, which meant that as it came and went, I did not need to be under the cardiologist.

I wish I knew why I get this speeding heart out of the blue for no reason, it leaves me feeling scared, vulnerable and I have no control. Please help.

This question was submitted by 'Rebecca'

Mark says...

Well of course I recommend anyone get physically checked out when reporting physical symptoms but I can reassure you that high stress levels, and anxiety can bring on the exact symptoms you describe.

Please see the article 7 Steps to Stop a Panic Attack. Numbness or tingling in the limbs can result from increased breathing (breathing in too much oxygen and then breathing out too much carbon dioxide). It's vital you take regular time out to relax and rest.

You could also use the Stress Management Pack.