Can a panic attack feel like a heart attack? Oftentimes, yes. Panic attacks are alarming because the symptoms can mirror a life-threatening heart attack.
“It can be frightening because both conditions can bring chest pain, rapid heartbeat, and shortness of breath, and you can’t be sure what is happening,” says Andrew Mathias of University of Rochester Medicine Cardiac Care.
That’s why it’s important to understand the differences between the two and when to seek appropriate medical care.
What does a panic attack feel like?
Panic attacks are sudden, intense episodes of fear or overwhelming anxiety that can peak within minutes. Although some call them anxiety attacks, panic attacks are different from generalized anxiety.
They occur in response to stress, fear, or a specific trigger, but they can also come unexpectedly. They are more common in individuals with anxiety disorders but can happen to anyone.
During a panic attack, you may feel:
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Rapid heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Trembling or shaking
- Feeling of choking
- Nausea or abdominal distress
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
Panic attacks are more common in individuals with anxiety disorders, but they can happen to anyone.
What does a heart attack feel like?
A heart attack (myocardial infarction) occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is blocked, usually by a blood clot. This blockage prevents oxygen from reaching the heart. Symptoms can vary, but commonly include:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Ache in jaw or jaw pain
- Arm, back, or neck pain or discomfort
- Stomach pain or discomfort
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweats
- Nausea
- Light-headedness or dizziness
Heart attacks are medical emergencies and require immediate treatment. If you suspect a heart attack, call 9-1-1 immediately.
How to tell the difference
The key differences between panic attacks and heart attacks are in the onset and duration of symptoms:
- Onset: Panic attacks start suddenly and peak within minutes. Heart attack symptoms often begin gradually and intensify.
- Duration: Panic attack symptoms typically fade within 20–30 minutes. Heart attack symptoms last longer and do not go away without medical treatment.
- Triggers: Panic attacks can be triggered by specific situations or thoughts, while external factors do not lead to heart attacks.
- Response to Medication: Panic attacks may subside after anti-anxiety medications, whereas heart attacks require immediate medical care, such as clot-busting drugs or procedures to restore blood flow to the heart.
“If you’re an anxious person or you’ve had a panic attack before, sit down and take some deep breaths or do some calming exercises. If the symptoms ease, it may more likely be a panic attack,” Mathias says.
If you have chest pain that persists or worsens after several minutes despite calming techniques, it’s best to get care immediately.
Source: University of Rochester
