Panic disorder and the heart: a cardiology perspective.
Panic disorder is a common condition that includes symptoms that may masquerade as a primary cardiovascular disorder. In addition, many patients with cardiovascular disease may also have panic disorder. To date, no definitive pathophysiological mechanism for panic disorder has been found; however, there are several hypotheses in the literature. Patients with syndrome X, coronary artery disease and/or palpitations, in addition to panic disorder all present to cardiologists. However, many patients go undiagnosed and ultimately place large costs on the health care system as a result. Panic disorder is a treatable condition, and cardiologists could easily identify patients with panic disorder and initiate appropriate therapy and/or referral.
Jeejeebhoy
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FM
Division of Cardiology, St. Michael's Hospital, 30 Bond Street, #7-051 Queen, M5B 1W8, Toronto, ON, Canada.
Dorian
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P
Newman
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DM
D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000523:psychology*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D016584:Panic Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D012017:Referral and Consultation