effort syndrome [Fr, exertion; Gk, syn, together, dromos, course] , an abnormal condition characterized by chest pain; dizziness; fatigue; palpitations; cold, moist hands; and sighing respiration. The condition is often associated with soldiers in combat but occurs also in other individuals. The pain often mimics angina pectoris but is more closely connected to anxiety states and occurs after rather than during exercise. Because angina may also be associated with anxiety, positive diagnosis of effort syndrome may require an exercise electrocardiogram. Other chest pains that mimic effort syndrome and angina may be caused by musculoskeletal problems, such as inflammation of the costochondral junctions, fractured ribs, or cervical spondylosis. Also called neurocirculatory asthenia.
