PVC's and Anxiety... - Anxiety Message Board

neshee · 11-08-2006, 03:09 PM

Okay, so my doc thinks that I have what is called PVC's (fluttering in the middle of your chest). They come usually more often around my monthly cycle. My question is, has anyone who has PVC's (which are considered completely normal) ever have had them so bad they felt like they weren't going to end and felt lightheaded?? I am just curious, b/c I had a really bad heavy flutter last week and it lasted probably 7-10 seconds (I know that seems short, but to a person with anxiety it took forever) and I almost felt faint. I am not sure if I should be concerned about this, or if I just had a really bad PVC. I cannot just run to the doc's as I have no health insurance. Thanks in advance for any advice you can give.

CTM5 · 11-08-2006, 03:23 PM

I have this every now and then to a point where I feel like I'm going to pass out. I went to the doctor to have it checked out and he said it was stress related and nothing I should worry about. Just remember that it is anxiety related and that you'll be fine

If it happens again just take deep breaths and tell yourself that you're ok and that it'll pass in a few seconds

Hope this helps!

CircusSquirrel · 11-08-2006, 04:29 PM

I have had PVCs for years, since I was 14 and I'm now 32. Sometimes they still catch me by surprise and scare the crap out of me. Basically, if you've been checked out, you can be reassured that they are common and harmless. I'm no doc, but I believe they usually really worry about heart stuff when a person actually passes out. Passing out and feeling lightheaded are two WAY different things to a doc. If you are super concerned and haven't had the "big" workup with the EKG and echo, you could ask for that. Some people get that, it comes back good, and they don't worry anymore. Then there are those of us (me included) who still spaz out from time to time! Take care!

anxiousinnj · 11-08-2006, 07:32 PM

For reassurance ( & safety), maybe ask your cardiolgist if you can wear a holter monitopr for a few days. HOpefully you will haveat least one of the fluttering events so they will know for sure what it is.
PVC's can be harnless, but several in a row can be dangerous & need treatment. I would want to have it checked further just to be sure. I don't like when things are blamed on anxiety before being properly checked out.

anxiousinnj

neshee · 11-08-2006, 08:49 PM

Thanks guys! I did have an EKG and and Echo done when I started having anxiety last December. Although my PVC's have gotten somewhat worse...(or seem to b/c of my anxiety) I feel fine otherwise. I think that if it was heart related or serious it would have showed up then, b/c I have had PVC's for 10 years or so. Just not that REAL heavy stuff, but I was going through a stressful time so that was probably it. Cannot afford a holter monitor. Would love to do that for reassurance, but can't. If it gets worse or whatever, I won't hesitate to be seen at whatever cost. But seeing as though I had those tests done a little less than a year ago, I am assuming that I am fine, plus I am only 27 so I guess I have age on my side too. Thanks again! That helps to know that I am not alone!