Panic Attack Or Heart Attack? Cardiovascular Expert Reveals The Key Differences
Why This Question Matters
Chest pain, sweating, numbness in the arms, and a racing heartbeat can happen during both panic attacks and heart attacks. Because the symptoms overlap, many people worry that a panic attack could trigger a heart attack. Experts explain the important differences.
Why The Symptoms Feel So Similar (IMG: AI)
According to emergency medicine physician Dr Joel London, both conditions can cause chest pain, sweating, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and arm discomfort. Although they feel alike, the underlying cause of each condition is completely different.
What Makes A Heart Attack Different? (IMG: AI)
A heart attack usually happens when a coronary artery becomes blocked, reducing blood flow to the heart muscle. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment to prevent permanent damage to the heart.
What Happens During A Panic Attack?
A panic attack is caused by a sudden surge of stress hormones that activates the body’s fight-or-flight response. In healthy individuals, it rarely causes a heart attack, even though the symptoms can feel overwhelming.
Can Frequent Panic Attacks Affect Heart Health?
While a single panic attack is unlikely to damage a healthy heart, repeated panic attacks and chronic anxiety may increase the long-term risk of heart disease by placing ongoing stress on the cardiovascular system.
When Should You Seek Medical Help?
Never ignore chest pain or symptoms that could indicate a heart attack. Since panic attacks and heart attacks can be difficult to distinguish without medical evaluation, experts recommend seeking immediate medical care whenever symptoms are severe or uncertain.
