The symptoms of a panic attack and a heart attack can be alarmingly similar, leading to confusion and fear. Recognizing the key differences between these two conditions can be life-saving, especially since each requires different forms of intervention. This article will explore the symptoms, differences, and when to seek help, with insights from the experts at Advanced Cardiovascular Center Buckeye.
Common Symptoms of Panic Attack and Heart Attack
Both a panic attack and a heart attack can involve sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, and a racing heart, making it challenging to differentiate between the two.
Panic Attack Symptoms:
- Sharp, stabbing chest pain
- Tingling in the hands
- Shortness of breath
- Racing heart
- Sweating and shaking
Heart Attack Symptoms:
- Chest pain or pressure (often described as a squeezing sensation)
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea or vomiting
- Cold sweats
- Pain radiating to the arm, jaw, or shoulder
While the symptoms may seem similar, understanding the nuances can help you decide whether to seek immediate emergency care or consult with a healthcare provider for anxiety-related issues.
How to Tell the Difference
Knowing whether you’re experiencing a panic attack or heart attack can be difficult if you’ve never encountered either. Here’s how you can distinguish between the two.
- Characteristics of Chest Pain
During a panic attack, chest pain is usually sharp and localized, often in the center of the chest. Heart attack pain, on the other hand, often feels like pressure or squeezing. The pain in a heart attack can radiate to the arm, jaw, or shoulder blades, and tends to intensify over time.
- Onset of Symptoms
While both panic attacks and heart attacks can come on suddenly, heart attacks often follow physical exertion or stress. If you experience chest pain after climbing stairs or engaging in strenuous activity, our Advanced Cardiovascular Center Buckeye advises seeking medical attention immediately.
- Duration of Symptoms
Most panic attacks resolve within several minutes, although they may feel intense while they last. Heart attack symptoms, however, typically last longer and progressively worsen. For example, mild chest pain can escalate into severe pain within minutes during a heart attack.
Can a Panic Attack Cause a Heart Attack?
Although a panic attack won’t directly cause a heart attack, it’s important to note that chronic stress and anxiety may contribute to the development of heart disease. Research indicates that people with anxiety disorders may have a higher risk of heart disease due to lower heart rate variability (HRV), a measure of how efficiently your heart adapts to changes in activity and emotion.
The heart care center Buckeye highlights that while panic attacks themselves aren’t life-threatening, managing stress and anxiety through lifestyle changes or therapy may reduce the risk of developing heart disease.
When to Seek Medical Help
Given the similarities in symptoms, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Seek emergency medical attention if you experience:
- Sudden, severe chest pain
- Chest pain lasting more than 2–3 minutes
- Pain radiating to your arm or jaw
Women, in particular, may experience atypical symptoms of a heart attack that could be mistaken for panic attacks. At the Heart Care Center Buckeye, doctors can use diagnostic tools like an electrocardiogram (ECG) or blood tests to confirm whether you’re experiencing a heart attack.
Panic attacks, while extremely uncomfortable, are not life-threatening. That said, untreated panic disorder can significantly reduce quality of life. Treatment options for panic attacks include medication, counseling, and lifestyle modifications to reduce anxiety and stress.
Heart attacks, on the other hand, can be life-threatening. Immediate treatment is crucial to improve outcomes. After a heart attack, long-term management of heart disease, including medication, diet, and exercise, is essential for recovery.
Conclusion
Distinguishing between a panic attack and a heart attack can be difficult, but understanding the differences can save your life. If in doubt, always seek medical attention, particularly if chest pain is persistent, severe, or radiates to other areas of the body. We are equipped to provide both immediate care and long-term management for those suffering from heart disease.For those struggling with anxiety and frequent panic attacks, visiting a healthcare provider can help prevent future episodes and improve their quality of life. At Advanced Cardiovascular Center, our specialists are trained to provide comprehensive care for both heart conditions and stress-related health issues, ensuring that each patient receives the care they need.
