Cardioneurosis

Cardioneurosis, also known as "cardiac neurosis" or "somatic cardiac neurosis" is a medical term formerly used to describe somatic (physical) symptoms such as heart pain, throbbing, shortness of breath, and other manifestations that appear to be heart-related but are not organic in nature. These symptoms may be caused by stress, anxiety, panic attacks, or psychosomatic factors.

The term is rarely used today as medical science has become more precise in distinguishing between physical heart problems and psychiatric disorders, which can manifest as symptoms similar to heart problems. Such psychosomatic symptoms can be diagnosed and treated by psychiatrists or psychotherapists.

If you have concerns about your heart condition or are experiencing symptoms that appear to be heart related, it is important to see your doctor for an examination and diagnosis. He or she will be able to make the necessary tests and recommendations to treat or manage your symptoms.

Causes of the heart neurosis

Cardioneurosis is a condition in which a person has symptoms that resemble cardiac problems, but there are actually no physical abnormalities or organic disorders of the heart. The causes of cardiac neurosis are usually related to psychological and emotional factors. Here are some of them:

1. Stress and anxiety: Increased stress and anxiety can have a negative impact on the cardiac system. People who are prone to anxiety may experience more intense physical reactions to stress, such as rapid heartbeat, increased blood pressure and sweating, which can create a feeling of cardiac neurosis.
2. Panic attacks: Panic attacks are intense episodes of anxiety that can be accompanied by symptoms that resemble heart problems, such as palpitations, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
3. Hyperventilation: Rapid and deep breathing, characteristic of hyperventilation, can alter carbon dioxide levels in the body and cause symptoms similar to cardiac neurosis.
4. Psychosomatic factors: Emotional problems and conflicts can manifest in physical symptoms, including heart-related symptoms.
5. Experiencing trauma: Psychological and emotional trauma can cause symptoms of cardiac neurosis in some people.
6. Social Environment: The environment, including work, relationships, and financial problems, can affect a person's emotional state and contribute to the development of cardiac neurosis.

It is important to note that cardioneurosis is not a serious heart condition, and with proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment, most symptoms can be successfully managed or improved.

Pathogenesis

The pathogenesis of cardioneurosis is not fully understood and may vary from person to person. However, it is believed that the condition is usually caused by an interaction of psychological and physiological factors. Here are some of the possible factors and mechanisms that may play a role in the pathogenesis of cardiac neurosis:

1. Psychological stress and anxiety: Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, depression and negative emotions can cause changes in the autonomic nervous system and the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. This can affect cardiac activity, causing an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to symptoms similar to cardiac neurosis.
2. Autonomic dysregulation: People with cardiac neurosis may have dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system that controls cardiac function. This may include periods of increased sympathetic nervous system activity (sympathicotonia) and decreased parasympathetic nervous system activity (parasympathicotonia).
3. Effects on heart rhythm: Psychological stress and anxiety can cause heart arrhythmias such as extrasystole (extra heartbeats) or supraventricular tachycardia (rapid heartbeat).
4. Hyperventilation: Stress and anxiety can lead to excessive hyperventilation (rapid and deep breathing), which can alter blood carbon dioxide levels and cause symptoms similar to cardiac neurosis, such as dizziness and shortness of breath.
5. Psychosomatic mechanisms: Some people are thought to be more susceptible to psychosomatic mechanisms, where emotional well-being and physical health are interrelated, and emotions can affect heart and vascular function.
6. Specific Factors: In some cases, cardiac neurosis may be associated with certain psychosocial situations or events such as trauma, conflict, or experiences.

The pathogenesis is complex and may involve a combination of physiologic and psychological factors.

Symptoms of the heart neurosis

Symptoms of cardioneurosis can include a variety of physical symptoms that are often bothersome and may resemble heart problems, but are not related to organic heart problems. Here are some of the typical symptoms:

1. Chest pain or discomfort: This is one of the most common symptoms of cardiac neurosis. Patients may describe pain, burning, pressure or discomfort in the chest, which may be misinterpreted as heart pain (angina).
2. Palpitations (tachycardia): Patients may feel that their heartbeat is fast, sometimes to the point where it becomes uncomfortable and causes anxiety.
3. Shortness of breath: Feeling short of breath or shortness of breath can be one of the symptoms of cardiac neurosis. Patients may feel that they have difficulty breathing or that they are short of breath.
4. Dizziness: Dizziness or feelings of unsteadiness may accompany cardiac neurosis, especially during times of intense emotional distress.
5. Feelings of pulsation: Some people may feel a pulsation or heartbeat in different parts of the body, which can cause anxiety.
6. Heart palpitations: Heart neurosis may be accompanied by arrhythmias, or a feeling of interruptions in the heart rhythm.
7. Sweating: Sweating and a feeling of heat may occur in cardiac neurosis.
8. Headache: Some people with cardiac neurosis may experience headaches or migraines.
9. Nausea and nonspecific gastric pain: These symptoms may also occur in patients with cardiac neurosis.

It is important to note that symptoms of cardiac neurosis usually increase during stressful situations or emotional outbursts and may decrease at rest.

Stages

Cardioneurosis does not usually have strict stages like many other diseases. However, its manifestations and symptoms can vary depending on individual characteristics and duration of symptoms. Cardiac neurosis can have different forms and manifestations. Here are a few typical forms or stages:

1. Acute phase: In this phase, the patient may experience sudden and severe stress or anxiety, which can lead to rapid heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of breath, and other symptoms that resemble heart problems. During this period, symptoms can be very intense and panic-inducing.
2. Subacute and chronic phases: After the acute phase, symptoms may progress to a more subacute or chronic phase. During this period, symptoms may persist but often become less intense and less attack-like. The patient may experience periodic exacerbations, especially in response to stressful situations.
3. Relapses and exacerbations: Cardiac neurosis can be prone to relapses, that is, periodic exacerbations of symptoms, especially with stressful events or anxiety. These exacerbations may be short-term or long-lasting.
4. Persistent form: In some people, cardiac neurosis may take a more persistent form when symptoms become persistent or long-lasting. In such cases, the symptoms may be less intense, but the anxiety and discomfort persist.

Forms

The following are some of the typical forms or manifestations of cardiac neurosis:

1. Angina (angina): In this form of cardiac neurosis, the patient may experience a sensation of pain or pressure in the chest that is similar to angina pectoris (heart pain). This pain may occur with physical activity or stress, but unlike true angina, it is not associated with coronary artery obstruction and is not improved by nitrates.
2. Arrhythmic form: In this form of cardiac neurosis, the patient may experience the sensation of irregular heart rhythms, interruptions in heart activity, or a heartbeat that is too fast (tachycardia). This can cause anxiety and discomfort.
3. Unsatisfactory heart sensations: Patients with this form of cardiac neurosis may complain of nonspecific sensations such as throbbing, discomfort, or a feeling of the heart "beating" in different parts of the body.
4. Shortness of breath and rapid breathing: Some people with cardiac neurosis may experience shortness of breath, rapid breathing, or a feeling of shortness of breath that may be mistakenly associated with heart problems.
5. Hyperventilation: Hyperventilation, or excessive fast and deep breathing, can be part of heart neurosis and can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, numbness and tingling in the arms and legs, and shortness of breath.
6. Tachycardia and pulsatile form: Patients may feel palpitations, throbbing beats, and pulsations in various parts of the body.

Complications and consequences

Cardioneurosis, although not associated with organic changes of the heart, can cause a number of physical and psychological complications that can have a negative impact on the patient's overall well-being. The following are some of the possible complications:

1. Deterioration of quality of life: Symptoms of cardiac neurosis, such as chest pain, shortness of breath and anxiety, can significantly impair a patient's quality of life. This can lead to limited physical activity and increased discomfort in daily life.
2. Psychological problems: Cardiac neurosis can exacerbate anxiety and depression in patients. Fear of heart problems and worrying about symptoms can cause psychological distress.
3. Health care costs: People with cardiac neurosis may see doctors and have additional tests to rule out organic heart problems. This may increase health care costs.
4. Fear of the heart syndrome (cardiophobia): In some patients with cardiac neurosis, symptoms can become a source of obsessive and avoidant thoughts regarding their heart condition. This can lead to cardiophobia, where a person fears heart disease and avoids physical activity or other situations that cause anxiety.
5. Nonspecific physical symptoms: Patients with cardiac neurosis may occasionally experience physical symptoms that may be a cause for concern, such as dizziness, headaches, abdominal pain, and other nonspecific complaints.
6. Social isolation: Because of the symptoms and anxiety associated with cardiac neurosis, patients may become less socially active and avoid social activities.

Diagnostics of the heart neurosis

Diagnosis is a complex process and may include the following steps:

1. Medical Examination: The doctor will examine the patient, including taking a medical and psychological history. This will determine what symptoms and concerns the patient is experiencing, as well as determine the presence of risk factors and other medical conditions.
2. Physical Exam: Your doctor may perform a physical exam, including taking your blood pressure, pulse, and listening to your heart and lungs to rule out organic heart and lung problems.
3. Laboratory and instrumental tests: Laboratory tests such as a general blood count and blood chemistry may be performed to rule out organic heart disease. In addition, your doctor may order additional instrumental tests such as ECG (electrocardiography), cardiac ultrasound, and Holter ECG (Holter ECG monitoring) to evaluate heart function and rule out serious heart problems.
4. Consultation with a psychiatrist or psychologist: After ruling out organic causes of symptoms, the physician may refer the patient to a psychiatrist or psychologist for a mental evaluation to see if there are signs of anxiety or depression that could be related to cardiac neurosis.
5. Assessment of symptoms and history: An important part of the diagnosis of cardiac neurosis is a detailed discussion of symptoms and history with the patient. The physician will ask questions about the nature of the symptoms, their frequency and duration, and the circumstances under which they occur.
6. Psychological evaluation: Psychological evaluation may include the use of standardized questionnaires and techniques to assess levels of anxiety, depression, and other psychological factors that may be associated with cardiac neurosis.

Differential diagnosis

The differential diagnosis of cardioneurosis is important to rule out organic heart problems and other medical conditions that may have similar symptoms. Below are some of the conditions to consider in the differential diagnosis of cardiac neurosis:

1. Coronary heart disease (CHD): CHD, also known as coronary heart disease, can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and palpitations, which can be similar to the symptoms of cardiac neurosis. An ECG, as well as other instrumental tests such as an exercise test or coronary artery angiography, should be performed to differentiate between the two.
2. Arrhythmias: Various arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation, ventricular fibrillation and others can cause irregular heart rhythms and palpitations. ECG and COLT can be helpful in identifying arrhythmias.
3. Hypertension (hypertension): High blood pressure can cause chest pain, dizziness, and shortness of breath, which may be mistakenly associated with cardiac neurosis. Measuring blood pressure and evaluating blood pressure levels will help rule out hypertension.
4. Some medical conditions, such as chest muscle pain and angina, can mimic chest pain similar to angina. Clinical examination and instrumental tests may help in the differential diagnosis.
5. Psychosomatic disorders: Some psychosomatic disorders can lead to physical symptoms, including chest pain and shortness of breath, which can be confounded with cardiac neurosis. Psychologic evaluation and symptomatic improvement with stress reduction may help in the differential diagnosis.

The differential diagnosis of cardiac neurosis requires a thorough examination and the combined efforts of a physician and a psychologist or psychiatrist. A correct diagnosis will allow the selection of the most appropriate treatment and management of the patient's condition.

Treatment of the heart neurosis

Treatment for cardioneurosis usually involves psychotherapy, stress management and, in some cases, drug therapy. It is important to remember that cardiac neurosis is most often associated with psychological and emotional factors, so the emphasis is on psychotherapy and stress management. The following are the main treatments for cardiac neurosis:

1. Psychotherapy:

   • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CPT helps the patient change negative beliefs and thoughts that may be contributing to anxiety and symptoms of cardiac neurosis. The therapist can help develop strategies for coping with stress and anxiety.
   • Psychoanalysis: Psychoanalytic therapy can help a patient explore the underlying psychological factors affecting their condition and symptoms. This can help to identify and understand the sources of anxiety.
   • Stress Reduction Therapy: This form of psychotherapy focuses on stress reduction, relaxation and emotion management techniques that can help reduce the symptoms of cardiac neurosis.

2. Stress Management:

   • Relaxation and breathing exercises: Deep relaxation techniques and proper breathing can help relieve stress and improve well-being.
   • Regular physical activity: Moderate physical activity, such as walking or yoga, can help manage stress and improve overall health.
   • Time Management: Time management, planning and organizing tasks can reduce stress levels.

3. Drug therapy:

   • In some cases, your doctor may consider prescribing medications such as anxiolytics (anti-anxiety medications) or antidepressants to reduce anxiety and symptoms of cardiac neurosis. However, medication is usually used in combination with psychotherapy.

4. Support and Lifestyle:

   • Social support: Talking to loved ones, friends and family about your emotional states and concerns can be helpful.
   • Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep, can help reduce anxiety and decrease symptoms of cardiac neurosis.

Treatment should be individualized and tailored to the needs of each patient. It is important to see a physician or psychotherapist to obtain an accurate diagnosis and develop a treatment plan. With the right approach and support, most patients with cardiac neurosis can improve their condition and quality of life.

Prevention

Prevention of cardioneurosis includes measures to manage stress and maintain emotional well-being. Here are some recommendations for prevention:

1. Stress Management:

   • Identify and cope with sources of stress: Try to identify what is causing you stress and develop strategies for coping with it. This may include managing your workload, organizing your time, and setting priorities.
   • Relaxation techniques: Try relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing and walking outdoors to reduce stress levels.
   • Physical activity: Regular exercise can help manage stress and improve your mood.

2. Maintaining Emotional Health:

   • Develop emotion management skills: Teach yourself to recognize and manage your emotions, including stress and anxiety. Psychotherapy can be helpful in developing these skills.
   • Communication: Maintain close relationships with friends and family. Talking about your feelings and experiences can help reduce emotional stress.

3. Healthy Lifestyle:

   • Good nutrition: Eating a balanced diet can have a positive effect on your physical and emotional health. Avoid excessive amounts of alcohol and smoking.
   • Adequate sleep: Regular and quality sleep is important for managing stress and emotions.
   • Avoid overwork: Try to avoid overloading yourself with work and tasks, which can cause stress.

4. Moderate consumption of information:

   • Limit time spent on social media and news sites to avoid information overload and the negative impact of news.
   • Choose your sources of information carefully and avoid excessive viewing of events that may cause anxiety.

5. Professional Support:

   • If you feel you are not coping with stress or anxiety, see a psychologist or psychiatrist for counseling and, if necessary, treatment.

Following a healthy lifestyle, managing stress effectively, and maintaining emotional well-being can reduce the risk of developing cardiac neurosis and promote overall health.

Forecast

The prognosis of cardioneurosis depends on many factors, including the severity of symptoms, the timeliness of diagnosis and treatment initiated, and the patient's ability to cope with stress and anxiety. It is important to note that cardiac neurosis is usually not associated with serious organic changes in the heart and, therefore, is rarely life-threatening.

With proper treatment and stress management, many patients with cardiac neurosis achieve complete recovery or significant improvement. Here are a few key aspects that affect prognosis:

1. Access to treatment: The earlier the patient seeks medical and psychological help, the better the prognosis. Timely initiation of treatment can prevent the condition from worsening.
2. Treatment effectiveness: Effective psychotherapy and stress management can significantly improve a patient's condition. However, choosing the right treatment method and the patient's cooperation with the doctor and psychotherapist play a role in achieving success.
3. Family and environmental support: Support from family and loved ones can have a positive impact on prognosis by providing emotional support and helping to cope with stress.
4. Patient's ability to self-manage: Patients who develop effective strategies to manage stress and anxiety have a more favorable prognosis.
5. Adherence to recommendations: It is important that the patient follows the doctor's recommendations and follows the prescribed procedures and treatment.
6. Secondary risk factors: If a patient has additional risk factors, such as the presence of other psychological disorders or chronic diseases, they may affect prognosis.

Cardioneurosis can be successfully treated and most patients see an improvement in their condition. However, each case is different and the prognosis can vary. It is important to discuss expectations and prognosis with your doctor or therapist to develop the best treatment and support plan for your particular case.