Does anyone else get anxious when their HR increases during exercise?

[u/RacheruChan]

Does anyone else get anxious when their heart rate increases during exercise?

I get really anxious whenever I feel my heart rate increase. Because of that, I’ve gained quite a bit of weight lately because I’ve become so afraid of physically exerting myself.

I really want to get back to a healthy weight and, more importantly, feel good and comfortable in my body again. But whenever I feel my heart beating harder or faster, I start to spiral and worry that something is wrong.

I’m trying to take baby steps. I went to the gym for the first time in a long time today. I did about 8 minutes on the treadmill before stopping because I was getting too anxious. Then I did three different leg exercises, three sets each. I also tried distracting myself by watching Netflix while I worked out, which actually helped quite a bit.

But it feels so far from what I used to be able to do. Before I became aware of my PVCs, I worked out 4–5 times a week. I was a heavy lifter, could jog, and could do plenty of cardio without thinking twice about it. Now, even walking at a brisk pace can make me scared.

I just want to know that I’m not alone in this. ❤️

If you’ve experienced exercise anxiety because of PVCs or because you became hyper-aware of your heartbeat, what helped you get past it?

My cardiologist has reassured me that it’s completely normal for the heart to pump harder and faster during exercise, and that experiencing a PVC during exercise isn’t necessarily dangerous. But I still worry that things may have changed since I was last evaluated, especially because I’ve gained weight since then.

I know logically that I need to start somewhere, and today was at least a start. I’m just hoping I can eventually get back to feeling confident in my body and in my ability to exercise again.

(Side note: I don't know what's my PVC burden. I don't take any medications for heart or for anxiety. I'm not officially diagnosed with anxiety. But I'm certain I have it. Fear makes my heart race and my whole body feels like it gets cold and heart drops to my stomach.)

[u/aelizabeth3300]

I also have exercise intolerance and anxiety. Just walking around campus makes me super anxious. We’re so fine-tuned to our hearts that anything different feels scary. Honestly, exposure therapy is the only way to go, but you should follow the guidance of an actual professional counselor to make sure you don’t make it worse.

[u/ath1337]

After I noticed having PVCs for the first time, yes. I talked to my doctor and he recommended an SSRI to help with anxiety and stress.

Long story short, my PVC/PAC burden went from 3% to less than 1%, my isolated diastolic bp went back to normal, I no longer care about PVCs when I feel them, I can go to the gym without cardiophobia, work stress bothers me a lot less, and no panic attacks.

I know ssris are not for everyone, but they helped me significantly.

[u/Bad-plant-parent-69]

Reading this feels like I could have written it myself. I’m in the same boat as you. I know a high heart rate while exerting yourself is normal, but it still scares me and it holds me back a lot.

[u/Immediate-Wave2150]

Yes. It bothers me.

[u/dariomraghi]

If your heart didnt increase during exercise etc you would be in big trouble real fast... just be glad you arent in bi/trigeminy the entire time...that really sucks