Can anxiety affect heart rate and the appearance of the ECG?

Anxiety can significantly impact heart rate and the appearance of the ECG. When a person experiences anxiety, the body undergoes a physiological response known as the "fight or flight" response. This response triggers the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline, which can lead to an increase in heart rate and changes in blood pressure. These reactions can manifest in an ECG as increased heart rate, variations in the rhythm, and potential artifacts on the tracing.

Artifact refers to any unwanted interference that distorts the true electrical signals from the heart. In the case of anxiety, muscle tension, rapid movements, or even shallow and quick breathing can result in such artifacts, obscuring the accurate representation of the heart's electrical activity. By understanding how anxiety influences the cardiovascular system, healthcare providers can better interpret ECG results and consider the patient's psychological state during assessment.

This insight underscores the importance of considering both physiological and psychological factors when evaluating ECGs, particularly in environments where anxiety may be prevalent, such as hospitals or clinics.