Can anxiety disorder cause EKG/ECG abnormalities?

Yes, anxiety disorder can cause EKG/ECG abnormalities. It is important to note that not all types of anxiety disorders will cause these abnormalities. However, certain forms of anxiety such as panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) may be associated with changes in the electrical activity of the heart.

These changes can appear on an EKG/ECG test as ST segment depression or elevation, T-wave flattening or inversion, U waves, minimal to prominent QT interval prolongation (or shortened duration), and more. These types of changes are often seen during episodes involving anxiousness and agitation, but they tend to resolve after the episode has passed.

It's important for those with an existing diagnosis of an anxiety disorder to discuss any potential ECG abnormality concerns with their healthcare provider in order to ensure appropriate evaluation and care. In some cases, further medical tests might be needed to determine whether these abnormalities were caused by a physical illness or an underlying psychological condition such as an anxiety disorder.