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Managing and Living With PACs and PVCs
Heart Rhythm Conditions | Last Active: 1 day ago | Replies (187)Comment receiving replies
Fast or irregular heartbeat is a listed side effect for escitalopram (Lexapro). I have some on the shelf that I never took because I saw that on the list of side effects. I am not aware of being anxious but a trigger for me is movement of my diaphragm upwards (from lifting or reaching) and the Klonopin helps it relax back down. Hot shower helps as does Reiki. I was considering Lexapro for post-COVID inertia but if it helps your heart, I will look into it!
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windyshores, what my medication specialist said was a concern before prescibing was there was some delay in a electrical signal that could come from the medication. That is why the EP and heart failure had to be contacted and approve it.
I have been told by my EP (Dr. Kusumoto Director of Pace Clinic at Mayo Jacksonville) that indeed stress can trigger AFIB and also cause more PVCs/PACs. He also warned me about weight as can also be a trigger.
I guess you and your doctors have to weigh what is best for you versus side affects. I think though that what side affects are listed it is "IT CAN" cause this in some individuals but some may not be affected. So it did help me and had no increase. However I have a ICD/Pacemaker and my heart is paced at 70 BPM. So like always everyone is different and what is good for one may not be good for another.
Being anxious is stress and a known cause of PVCs/PACs and being able to reduce it can be a benefit to those affected by it and gain some are affected more than others.
I had not heard about diaphragm. I do know I do not like raising my hands above my head as don't like the feeling and also seems to aggravate my pacemaker making it move.
Good luck and I wish you well.