THE INFLUENCE OF FEAR ON THE ELECTROCARDIOGRAM

Abstract

While investigating the effect of an anasthetic on the cardiac action, we chanced on the observation that fear of an impending operation produced remarkable changes in the electrocardiogram of many persons with normal hearts. We therefore proceeded to a systematic investigation in a larger number. Having reported some of these results (Mainzer and Krause, 1939), we are now adding further material, and trying to discuss the cardiographic and clinical significance of the findings.