Chest pain, shortness of breath, and a feeling of fear can be symptoms of both a panic attack and a heart attack. Knowing the difference between an anxiety attack and a heart attack can be crucial for your health.
Below, we present the keys to recognizing each one and knowing when it’s time to seek emergency medical help.
Origin of pain
In a heart attack, the pain is a severe pressure or tightness in the center of the chest that can spread to the arm, neck, jaw, or back. In an anxiety attack, the pain is sharper and intermittent and is localized to a specific spot in the chest.
Sensation of pain
The pain of a heart attack is described as crushing or heavy, while the pain of an anxiety attack feels like a stabbing pain.
Pain irradiation
The pain of a heart attack can spread to other parts of the body, such as the left arm, back, and jaw. The pain of an anxiety attack does not extend beyond the chest.
Duration of symptoms
Heart attack symptoms usually last more than 20 minutes and can worsen over time. Anxiety attack symptoms peak within 10 minutes and then subside.
Trigger
A heart attack can occur at any time, even while you’re resting. An anxiety attack is usually triggered by a stressful or frightening situation.
Breathing
During a heart attack, shortness of breath is more intense and persistent. During an anxiety attack, breathing is more rapid and shallow (hyperventilation), which can cause dizziness and tingling in the hands and feet.
Type of sweating
Sweating during a heart attack is cold and clammy. During an anxiety attack, it’s hot and accompanied by trembling.
Response to medication
The pain of a heart attack may be partially relieved with nitroglycerin or aspirin. The symptoms of an anxiety attack do not respond to these types of medications .
Medical history
People with a family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol are at higher risk for a heart attack. People who have experienced panic attacks in the past or who suffer from an anxiety disorder are more likely to experience an anxiety attack.