A scientific meeting of the European Society of Cardiology found that more than 40% of women reported anxiety four months after a cardiac arrest, compared to 23% of men.

The study included 245 patients who suffered a cardiac arrest in the community and were subsequently admitted to the hospital in a coma.

The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the PCL-5 checklist were used to assess psychological symptoms. Participants gave a score of 0 to 3 for how frequently or intensely they experienced 14 items, such as "I get sudden emotions of terror," for a total of 0 to 21 for anxiety and 0 to 21 for depression. The average HADS score for depression was 2.7, and the average HADS score for anxiety was 4.8. Women had considerably greater depression and anxiety scores (3.3 and 6.1, respectively) than men (2.6 and 4.5, respectively).

Anxiety levels of 8 or higher were found in 43% of women and 23% of males. When compared to men, women reported significantly greater levels of PTSD.

The findings support the clinical experience that the psychosocial repercussions of cardiac arrest might last for months. Anxiety was common, especially among women. The results underline the importance of long-term follow-up with cardiac arrest survivors to identify and treat mental health concerns. Individuals should be encouraged to discuss their anxiety, depression, and stress about the cardiac arrest with their healthcare provider. Further research is needed to determine whether talking to a specialist can relieve psychological issues.

 (Source:  https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/cardiac-arrest-more-likely-to-cause-long-term-anxiety-in-women-than-men-study-101679915999045.html)