Panic attacks are intense episodes of fear or anxiety that usually peak within minutes. They can follow stress, fear or a specific trigger, but sometimes they occur unexpectedly. Typical symptoms are chest pain or discomfort, a rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, sweating, trembling, nausea and dizziness.
A heart attack (myocardial infarction) occurs when blood flow to part of the heart muscle is blocked, often by a blood clot. This prevents oxygen from reaching the heart. Symptoms commonly include chest pain or pressure, pain in the jaw, arm, back or neck, shortness of breath, cold sweats and light-headedness.
The main differences are how symptoms start and how long they last. Panic attacks begin suddenly and usually fade within 20 to 60 minutes. Heart attack symptoms often build more slowly and do not go away without medical treatment. If symptoms persist or get worse, seek immediate care and call 9-1-1.
Difficult words
- panic attack — A sudden, intense episode of fear and anxiety.Panic attacks
- anxiety — Strong worry or nervous feeling about danger or events.
- trigger — Something that causes a reaction or event to start.
- symptom — A sign or feeling that shows a health problem.Symptoms
- heart attack — When blood flow to the heart is blocked.
- blood clot — A thick mass of blood that can block vessels.
- persist — To continue to exist or not go away.
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Discussion questions
- Have you or someone you know had sudden chest pain or shortness of breath? What happened and how was it handled?
- If a friend has sudden chest pain, how would you decide whether to call 9-1-1 or wait?
- What steps could you try to reduce situations that trigger panic attacks in daily life?
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