Panic Attack Vs Heart Attack- How to Know the Difference

Panic attack and heart attack are two distinct medical conditions with different causes, symptoms, and treatments.

A panic attack is an abrupt beginning of extreme anxiety or discomfort that is frequently accompanied by physical symptoms such shortness of breath, sweating, trembling, and chest pain. Panic attacks can occur without any apparent trigger and are typically short-lived, lasting a few minutes to an hour.

Contrarily, a heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction, is a significant medical emergency that happens when the blood supply to a portion of the heart is cut off, resulting in injury or death to the heart muscle tissue. The accumulation of plaque in the coronary arteries, which carry blood to the heart, is the most frequent reason for heart attacks.

Although panic attacks and heart attacks share some symptoms, such as chest pain and shortness of breath, there are significant differences between the two conditions. The heart is not permanently damaged by panic attacks, nor are they life-threatening. A heart attack, on the other hand, is a dangerous ailment that may be fatal and calls for prompt medical care.

Although the exact origins of panic attacks are unknown, it is believed that a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological variables are at play. Panic disorder, a type of anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent panic attacks, may be triggered by stressful life events, such as trauma or major life changes.

Medication and therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or exposure therapy, are frequently used to treat panic attacks. In contrast, the treatment of a heart attack involves emergency medical care, such as administering clot-busting drugs or performing surgery to restore blood flow to the heart.

A heart attack, also known as myocardial infarction, is a dangerous medical emergency that has to be treated very away. While each person will experience a heart attack differently, there are certain typical symptoms to watch out for.

Chest pain or discomfort, which may feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain, is the most typical sign of a heart attack. The arms, neck, jaw, or back may also experience pain or discomfort as a result of the ailment. Additional signs of a heart attack could be;

• Shortness of breath
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sweating
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Feeling of impending doom

It's important to note that some people, particularly women and older adults, may experience atypical symptoms of a heart attack, such as fatigue, weakness, or abdominal pain. These signs and symptoms could be misinterpreted for other illnesses like the flu or dyspepsia.

The rapid onset of extreme dread or discomfort, frequently accompanied by physical symptoms, is known as a panic attack. Although they can be frightening and upsetting, panic attack symptoms are not life-threatening. Typical signs of a panic attack include:

• Sudden and overwhelming fear or anxiety
• A hammering or erratic heartbeat
• Sweating
• Shaking or trembling
• Breathing difficulty or choking sensation
• Chest discomfort or agony
• Nausea or stomach pain
• Nausea or stomach pain
• Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
• A sense of disconnection from reality or oneself

The symptoms of a panic attack can occur suddenly and without any apparent trigger. They typically peak within 10 minutes and can last up to an hour. After the attack subsides, a person may feel exhausted and emotionally drained.

The symptoms of a panic attack can resemble those of a heart attack, but despite this, panic attacks are not life-threatening and do not harm the body permanently. Medication and therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or exposure therapy, are frequently used to treat panic attacks. Helping a person control their symptoms, lessen the frequency and severity of panic attacks, and enhance their quality of life are the main objectives of treatment.

Due to their shared symptoms, such as palpitations, chest pain, and shortness of breath, panic attacks and heart attacks often feel similar to one another. These alarming sensations might make someone feel like they are experiencing a heart attack, which aggravates their worry.

One reason why panic attacks and heart attacks feel similar is that both conditions can cause a surge of adrenaline in the body. Adrenaline is a hormone that triggers the body's 'fight or flight' response, which can cause physical symptoms such as increased heart rate, rapid breathing, and sweating.

Another reason why panic attacks and heart attacks can feel similar is that they can both be triggered by stress or anxiety. Panic disorder, a form of anxiety illness characterized by recurring panic attacks, can be brought on by long-term stress and anxiety. Stress and anxiety can also contribute to the development of heart disease, which is a risk factor for heart attacks.

Despite having similar symptoms, panic attacks and heart attacks differ significantly in a few important ways. For example, chest pain or discomfort associated with a heart attack may feel more severe and be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea or sweating. Panic attacks, on the other hand, typically involve sudden and intense fear or anxiety that is not related to a specific trigger.

When experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and rapid heart rate, it can be difficult to distinguish between a panic attack and a heart attack. While the symptoms of both conditions can be frightening and distressing, there are some key differences that can help differentiate between the two.

Here are some of the main differences between a panic attack and a heart attack;

• Causes: Panic attacks are typically caused by anxiety or stress, while heart attacks are caused by a blockage in the blood vessels that supply the heart.
• Onset: Panic attacks usually come on suddenly, while heart attacks may develop over several minutes or hours.
• Duration: Panic attacks typically last for several minutes, while heart attacks can last for hours or even days.
• Pain location: The chest pain associated with a panic attack is usually diffuse and located in the center of the chest, while the chest pain associated with a heart attack is often described as a tight, crushing pain that may radiate to the left arm or shoulder.
• Other symptoms: Panic attacks may be accompanied by symptoms such as trembling, sweating, and a feeling of impending doom, while heart attacks may be accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and shortness of breath.
• Medical emergency: Although heart attacks and panic attacks can both be upsetting, only a heart attack is a medical emergency that has to be treated right away. Panic attacks, while uncomfortable, are not life-threatening.

Preventing panic attacks involves addressing the underlying causes of anxiety and stress. These are some methods that could shield against panic attacks;

• Identify triggers: Determine the circumstances or events that make you anxious, and if at all feasible, strive to avoid them. If you cannot avoid them, learn techniques to cope with them.
• Practice relaxation techniques: Deep breathing, meditation, and yoga are all examples of relaxation techniques that can assist to clear the mind and lessen stress.
• Exercise: Frequent exercise can encourage relaxation and aid to lower stress and anxiety.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol: Alcohol and caffeine can both heighten anxiety and precipitate panic attacks. Avoiding or limiting these substances can help prevent panic attacks.
• Get enough sleep: Feelings of anxiety and stress can be exacerbated by sleep deprivation. Getting adequate sleep can lower your risk of panic episodes and help you control your mood.
• Seek professional help: It might be beneficial to seek professional assistance if you frequently suffer from panic attacks. A therapist can assist you in pinpointing the root reasons of your anxiety and creating coping mechanisms to stop panic episodes.

You might want to speak with a mental health expert like a psychologist or a psychiatrist if you're having panic attack symptoms. Diagnoses and treatments for mental health diseases like panic disorder, which can result in panic attacks, are their area of expertise.

A psychiatrist is a medical professional who focuses on the identification, therapy, and management of mental health issues. They are able to prescribe medication and provide therapy to help manage symptoms of panic attacks and panic disorder.

A psychologist is a mental health professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions using various forms of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy. They are trained to help individuals manage their anxiety and develop coping strategies to prevent panic attacks.

If you are having panic attack symptoms, it's crucial to get expert assistance because they can be crippling and have an adverse effect on your everyday life. An expert in mental health can guide you in determining the root reasons of your anxiety and offer efficient management techniques.

There are several medications that can be effective in treating panic attacks and panic disorder, but it is important to consult with a qualified medical professional to determine which medication may be best for your individual needs. Here are some commonly prescribed medications for panic attacks;

• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): These drugs are frequently used to treat depression, but they can also help with panic disorder symptoms. Fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and paroxetine are other examples (Paxil).
• Benzodiazepines: These medications can provide immediate relief for symptoms of panic attacks but are generally not recommended for long-term use due to the potential for addiction and withdrawal symptoms. Examples include alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin), and lorazepam (Ativan).
• Beta-blockers: These drugs are frequently used to address heart problems and high blood pressure, but they can also assist with physical signs of worry like trembling and a fast heartbeat. Examples include propranolol (Inderal) and atenolol (Tenormin).

It is important to note that medication is not always necessary for treating panic attacks, and therapy such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can also be effective in managing symptoms.

Depending on the psychiatrist and region, psychological counseling can currently range in price from INR 500 per hour to INR 2000 per hour. Medications used in the treatment of panic attacks are generally affordable, but the total cost of treatment can vary depending on the type and length of treatment needed. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on the cost of panic attack treatments in India, it is best to consult a qualified medical professional or health organization.

Although heart attacks and panic attacks may both have some of the same symptoms, they are two different medical diseases that call for different types of care. Panic attacks can be managed through therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, while heart attacks require immediate medical attention and emergency treatment. If you see symptoms of either condition, it's crucial to speak with a medical expert.

Additionally, managing any underlying medical issues, reducing stress, and leading a healthy lifestyle will help prevent panic attacks and heart attacks.