Heart racing and anxiety: what should you know?

Anxiety activates stress hormones, which can increase the force and speed of the heartbeat. You may also notice trembling, sweating, chest tightness, faster breathing, or a feeling of impending danger.

Palpitations can also occur with dehydration, anaemia, an overactive thyroid, low blood sugar, or atrial fibrillation. Generalised anxiety disorder involves ongoing excessive worry and may need support beyond coping techniques. A symptom pattern cannot confirm the cause.

Sit with your feet supported and breathe out a little longer than you breathe in. Name the sensation without fighting it, reduce noise and stimulation, and sip water. Avoid caffeine, nicotine, energy products, and recreational drugs while your heart is racing.

Keep a brief record of triggers, sleep, medicines, meals, and the rhythm you felt. If worry repeatedly causes avoidance or disrupts sleep, book an appointment to discuss talking therapy, physical checks, and a personalised plan.

Get emergency help for chest pain or pressure, severe breathlessness, fainting, sudden weakness, confusion, or a racing heartbeat that feels chaotic and does not settle. Stay where you are and avoid driving if you feel unsafe.

Arrange prompt medical review for a first episode, repeated attacks, symptoms during exercise, or palpitations with dizziness. Assessment may include an electrocardiogram and blood tests to look for rhythm, thyroid, blood-count, or blood-sugar problems.

Ask how anxiety can be distinguished from a rhythm problem, which physical checks are suitable, and which breathing or psychological strategies fit your symptoms.