From the Guidelines
You are likely experiencing symptoms related to an autonomic nervous system disorder, and consulting a cardiologist or neurologist for proper diagnosis and treatment is crucial. Heart palpitations, anxiety, and raised blood pressure when lying down could be related to Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) or another condition. According to the 2017 ACC/AHA/HRS guideline for the evaluation and management of patients with syncope 1, orthostatic intolerance is a general term referring to frequent, recurrent, or persistent symptoms that develop upon standing, but in your case, the symptoms occur when lying down, which may indicate an overcompensation of the autonomic nervous system.
Some key points to consider:
- Increasing fluid intake to 2-3 liters daily and adding 3-5 grams of salt to your diet may help alleviate symptoms
- Wearing compression stockings and elevating the head of your bed by 4-6 inches can also be beneficial
- Medications such as beta-blockers, fludrocortisone, or midodrine may be prescribed by a cardiologist or neurologist to manage symptoms
- Regular, gradual exercise as tolerated can help retrain the autonomic nervous system over time
It is essential to note that the pathophysiology of orthostatic intolerance is varied, and a proper diagnosis by a specialist is necessary to determine the best course of treatment. The guideline 1 highlights the importance of understanding the underlying condition to provide effective management and reduce symptoms.
In your case, since the symptoms occur when lying down, it is crucial to consult a specialist to rule out any underlying conditions that may be contributing to these symptoms. The specialist can help determine the best course of treatment and provide guidance on managing symptoms to improve quality of life.
From the Research
Possible Causes of Tachycardia, Anxiety, and Hypertension
- Tachycardia, anxiety, and hypertension can be caused by various factors, including stress, anxiety disorders, and certain medical conditions 2, 3.
- Anxiety symptoms have been linked to cardiac sympathetic hyperactivity, which can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure 2.
- However, it is essential to note that heart rate and blood pressure may not always accurately reflect anxiety levels, especially in acutely ill patients 3.
Breathing Techniques and Their Effects
- Deep abdominal breathing has been shown to reduce heart rate and symptoms in patients with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) 4.
- Pursed-lip breathing combined with number counting has been found to lower blood pressure and heart rate in hypertensive urgency patients 5.
- These breathing techniques may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and hypertension by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
Relationship Between Anxiety and Physiological Responses
- Anxiety can manifest differently in various individuals, and physiological responses such as heart rate and blood pressure may not always be elevated in anxious individuals 3.
- The relationship between anxiety and physiological responses can be complex, and more research is needed to fully understand this relationship 6, 2.