Shallow, fast breath.
Dizziness, nausea, and cold sweats.
She actuallyhada heart attack that she initially mistook for a panic attack.
(Thankfully, she received help in time and was successfully treated.)
Bottom line: If a mental health professional can get the two confused, anyone can.
Here, learn more about the difference between heart attacks vs. panic attacks, and treatment for both.
cardiologist with Jefferson Health in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and member of theAmerican Heart Association’s National Hispanic Latino Cardiovascular Collaborative
What are the signs of a panic attack?
They may even feel like their heart is racing.
The below are commonpanic attack symptoms.
And in that case, they could be deadly.
How long do panic attacks typically last?
Panic attacks can feel like a tsunami.
They often hit quickly without much warning and can ease up almost as fast.
Physical symptoms usually peak and subside within 10 minutes, Fehling says.
Chest pain from a heart attack, on the other hand, might ease up for a short period.
cardiologist with Jefferson Health in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and member of theAmerican Heart Association’s National Hispanic Latino Cardiovascular Collaborative
But itll keep coming back until youre treated, per theAmerican Heart Association(AHA).
It also tends to get worse as you exert yourself.
Physical symptoms of a panic attack usually peak and subside within 10 minutes.
Kiki Fehling, PhD, psychologist
What are the signs of a heart attack?
Womens symptoms tend to get written off as being too emotional, says Dr. Pina.
Their symptoms also sometimes get attributed to indigestion or a pulled muscle instead, she adds.
So if someone has concerning symptoms its better to be safe and get evaluated at the ER.
Its Amazing How Its All Connected.
Treatment for panic attacks
Panic attacks are very common and not dangerous, Fehling says.
And if it only happens once, you dont necessarily need to get treatment.
Most people who receive CBT for panic disorder remain panic-free for years after therapy, she adds.
Other types of therapy for anxiety could include EMDR or a trauma therapy calledbrainspotting.
Talk to your doctor about these options and whether youd be a good candidate for them.
This can be done withheart medicationsto dissolve the clot or via surgery, per theAHA.
You dont want to be sitting on a bad event that could cost you your life, she adds.
So its a good idea to give your doctor a heads up, even if youve only had one.
FAQ
Why does your heart race at night?
Yourheart may race at nightfrom stress, anxiety, or depression, says Fehling.
Nighttimeheart palpitationscan also happen from drinking caffeine or alcohol before bed.
So if the problem is happening regularly, its a good idea to get it checked out.
What are the different types of panic attacks?
Mental health experts categorize panic attacks into two main types.
Sometimes just thinking about a trigger can cue up a panic attack.
They can happen during the day or at night.
Both types can be treated with talk therapy, medication, or a combination of the two.
How can you rule out a heart attack at home?
Unfortunately, you cant.
So if youre not sure what youre dealing with, dont take a chance.
Call 911 and go to the ER as soon as possible.
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