Individuals with heightened AS observe heart rate more correctly due to increased sensitivity and preoccupation with perceived symptoms with heart disease such as faster heart activity while participating in physical activity. Most often, this condition presents itself co-morbidly when there is an existing heart condition. 


Santa Clara University

When patients have AS and chronic health conditions, the former exacerbates the latter since it induces fear, and therefore, vulnerability to symptoms of the physical conditions. 


AS and Fear of Physical Chronic Conditions

Horenstein, Arielle, et al. “How Does Anxiety Sensitivity Increase Risk of Chronic Medical Conditions?” Clinical Psychology: Science and Practice, vol. 25, no. 3, 2 Apr. 2018, https://doi.org/10.1111/cpsp.12248. 

How does anxiety sensitivity increase risk of chronic conditions?

AS and Fear of Cardiac Symptoms

AS is associated with Irritable Bowel Movement due to greater vulnerability to symptoms caused by AS. Research shows that people with heightened AS have lower control of abdominal symptoms, but feel insecure over their ability to not control their bowel sensations. The cycle of avoidance and embarrassment increases the effect of the gastrointestinal condition.


AS and Irritable Bowel Syndrome 

Since patients cannot disengage from the attention they receive after an episode of pain, like after a scraped knee, they continue to be vulnerable. This is worsened when the patient suffers from a chronic condition. This is bidirectional because the increased cognition regarding pain leads to increased sensitivity towards pain, and therefore leads to more perceived pain.


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