The Heart, High Cholesterol, and Blood Circulation Issues / Question
Published: February 28, 2009
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I'm afraid of doctors. They always think something is wrong with me because my heart rate and breathing are fast when they take my pulse. That only makes it worse. Do you have any advice?
Signed: Fast Heart Rate And Pulse - Doctor Thinks Something Is Wrong
Dear Fast Heart Rate And Pulse - Doctor Thinks Something Is Wrong,
It is possible that there is an underlying medical condition contributing to your fast heart rate and pulse. It is also possible that your heart rate and pulse quicken when you are at the doctor’s because you are feeling anxious. When people are afraid or anxious it is easy to develop certain physical symptoms, such as an elevated heart rate or racing pulse. FX suggests that you let your doctor know about your concerns next time you have an appointment. Tell him/her that you often feel nervous about coming and think that your anxiety might be what is affecting your heart rate and pulse – not an underlying medical condition. That way, your doctor can factor this in if he/she is having any concerns about your physical health.
You might also consider doing things like deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relationship, meditation, or guided imagery as a way of relaxing yourself when you feel anxious. You could speak to your doctor, a private therapist, or even a counselor at school about how to develop and use some of these techniques to reduce your anxiety in certain situations.
If you live in northern
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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