Experiencing intense chest pain and shortness of breath can be alarming, making it difficult to determine whether it’s a panic attack or a heart attack. Understanding the differences between these conditions is crucial for managing symptoms effectively and seeking appropriate medical care.
Understanding the Physical Symptoms
Both conditions can cause chest pain, rapid heartbeat, and sweating, but key differences exist. Panic attacks often produce sharp or stabbing chest pain that fluctuates, while heart attack pain typically feels like pressure or heaviness radiating to the arms, neck, or jaw.
Duration and Triggers
A panic attack usually peaks within 10 minutes and resolves within 30 minutes, while a heart attack develops gradually and lasts longer. Panic attacks are often triggered by stress, trauma, or intense emotions, whereas heart attacks can occur suddenly due to blocked arteries, even at rest.
Additional Warning Signs
Heart attacks often involve nausea, vomiting, and cold sweats, which are less common in panic attacks. Breathing during a panic attack is usually shallow and rapid, while heart attacks may cause difficulty breathing due to reduced blood flow. Understanding these distinctions can help determine when emergency care is needed.
Key Differences to Note
- Chest pain – Sharp and temporary (panic attack) vs. heavy and prolonged (heart attack)
- Duration – Short (panic attack) vs. long-lasting (heart attack)
- Triggers – Emotional stress (panic attack) vs. physical exertion or unknown cause (heart attack)
- Breathing patterns – Hyperventilation (panic attack) vs. difficulty breathing (heart attack)
- Radiating pain – Rare in panic attacks; common in heart attacks, affecting arms or jaw
Contact Coherence Mental Health Services for professional support in managing anxiety and panic-related concerns. Our expert team provides structured mental health care to help individuals recognize symptoms and develop effective coping strategies.