Can Anxiety Cause A Heart Murmur?

Yes, anxiety is a potential cause of a heart murmur, specifically a physiologic or flow murmur. Here's how stress triggers the changes that produce it.

Overview

Yes, anxiety is a potential cause of a heart murmur. It is specifically known as a physiologic heart murmur, which occurs when the heart beats faster due to increased blood flow triggered by anxiety or stress. While anxiety isn't typically considered a direct cause, it does contribute to physiological changes that may produce heart murmurs.

How Does Anxiety Cause a Heart Murmur?

Anxiety activates the autonomic nervous system, which regulates involuntary functions including heart rate. This triggers the fight-or-flight response, causing cardiovascular changes. Anxiety can lead to tachycardia and chronic high blood pressure, straining the heart. The resulting increased blood flow creates what's called a flow murmur.

How to Identify a Heart Murmur

Heart murmurs are abnormal sounds detected with a stethoscope, typically sounding like whooshing or swishing noises. The murmur results from turbulent blood flow through the heart's chambers or valves. Tests like electrocardiograms can rule out other cardiac issues.

When to Worry About Heart Murmurs in Adults

Three warning scenarios should prompt evaluation: unexplained chest pain with shortness of breath, changes in existing murmurs' intensity or character, and heart murmurs in older adults or those with a history of cardiac disease.

Takeaway

If you are concerned about heart murmurs or experiencing any of the warning signs, consult with a cardiovascular expert for a thorough evaluation.