Anxiety and cardiac disease

Does anxiety lead to increased cardiac morbidity? Scientists have hypothesized a relationship between emotions and the heart for centuries, and recent research supports that contention. In particular, a growing body of evidence indicates that negative emotions, including anxiety, are independent risk factors for cardiovascular disease, and that the presence of anxiety in patients with cardiovascular disease increases morbidity and possibly mortality. Clinicians treating patients with known or suspected cardiac disease are likely to encounter various forms of anxiety, ranging from normal reactions to acute illness to an anxiety disorder masquerading as cardiovascular disease. This article will review the various forms of anxiety most commonly associated with cardiovascular disease, as well as recommended treatment strategies.