Heart attack and panic attack may share some symptoms, but they are very different conditions.

Heart attack is a serious medical emergency that requires immediate attention, while panic attack is a psychological condition that usually resolves on its own. Knowing the difference between them can be life-saving.

What is a Heart Attack?

A heart attack, also known as myocardial infarction, occurs when the heart muscle doesn’t receive enough blood supply, usually due to a blocked artery.

The blockage can be caused by a blood clot or plaque buildup in the artery, also known as atherosclerosis. Symptoms of a heart attack may include:.

Chest pain or discomfort, which feels like pressure, tightness, squeezing, or burning
Pain or discomfort in the arms, neck, jaw, back, or stomach
Shortness of breath
Nausea, vomiting, or dizziness
Cold sweats or clammy skin

Heart attack symptoms can occur suddenly or develop over time. They may also vary in severity, with some people experiencing mild discomfort while others may have intense pain.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of a heart attack, call 911 or seek medical attention immediately.

What is a Panic Attack?

A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear or anxiety, often with physical symptoms that resemble a heart attack. Panic attacks are a symptom of panic disorder, a type of anxiety disorder.

The exact cause of panic disorder is unknown, but it may involve genetics, brain chemistry, or traumatic life events. Symptoms of a panic attack may include:.

Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
Chest pain or discomfort, which may feel like a heart attack
Sweating or chills
Trembling or shaking
Feeling of choking
Nausea or abdominal distress
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Feeling of unreality or detachment from oneself
Fear of losing control or going crazy
Fear of dying

Panic attack symptoms usually peak within 10 minutes and can last up to an hour. They may also occur unexpectedly or in response to certain triggers, such as crowds, confined spaces, or social situations.

Panic attacks can be distressing, but they are not life-threatening.

How to Differentiate Between Heart Attack and Panic Attack?

Because some symptoms of heart attack and panic attack are similar, it can be difficult to tell them apart. However, there are some key differences that can help you differentiate between the two:.

Chest pain: Chest pain during a heart attack may be more severe, with a feeling of pressure, tightness, or squeezing. The pain may also radiate to other parts of the body, such as the arms, neck, jaw, or stomach. Chest pain during a panic attack may be more intermittent, sharp, or stabbing, and may move around the chest or feel like a knot in the stomach.
Breathing: Shortness of breath during a heart attack usually occurs with chest pain and may feel like a suffocating sensation. Shortness of breath during a panic attack is often the result of hyperventilation and may not be accompanied by chest pain.
Sweating: Cold sweats or clammy skin are more typical for a heart attack than for a panic attack. However, sweating can also occur during a panic attack, usually as a result of the sympathetic nervous system activation.
Intensity: Symptoms of a heart attack usually increase in intensity over time and are not relieved by rest or medication. Symptoms of a panic attack usually peak within minutes and resolve on their own, although they can recur if the trigger persists.
Frequency: Heart attacks are usually a one-time event, although a second heart attack is possible. Panic attacks can occur multiple times, either sporadically or as part of a panic disorder.

When to Seek Medical Attention?

If you are experiencing symptoms of a heart attack, such as chest pain or shortness of breath, seek medical attention immediately. Call 911 or your local emergency services and describe your symptoms.

If you are experiencing a panic attack, try to stay calm and wait for the symptoms to subside. If they persist or become unmanageable, seek medical attention.

Preventing Heart Attack and Panic Attack

While some risk factors for heart attack and panic attack cannot be changed, such as family history or genetic predisposition, others can be managed through lifestyle changes and medical treatments.

Some ways to prevent heart attack and panic attack include:.

Eating a healthy, balanced diet low in saturated and trans fats
Exercising regularly, at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week
Maintaining a healthy weight
Not smoking or using tobacco products
Drinking alcohol in moderation or not at all
Managing stress through relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga, or counseling
Taking medications as prescribed by a healthcare provider, such as statins for high cholesterol or beta-blockers for high blood pressure

Conclusion

Heart attack and panic attack may share some symptoms, but they are very different conditions. Heart attack is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention, while panic attack is a psychological condition that usually resolves on its own.

Knowing the difference between them can be life-saving. If you are experiencing symptoms of a heart attack, seek medical attention immediately.

If you are experiencing a panic attack, try to manage your symptoms with relaxation techniques or seek medical attention if they persist or interfere with your daily life. Preventing heart attack and panic attack involves a healthy lifestyle and medical treatments as needed.