- Chest pain that spreads to the left arm, shoulder, or jaw and gets worse over time may be a warning sign of a heart attack.
- Symptoms that start suddenly without an obvious cause or during physical exertion should be treated as a medical emergency.
- If there is any doubt, call 911 for urgent evaluation.
Panic attack vs heart attack symptoms can be very similar. This overlap can make it difficult to tell the difference in the moment.
However, there are some differences that may help. Panic attacks are usually triggered by stressful situations or excessive worry, while a heart attack may happen without an obvious cause or after intense physical exertion.
Even so, if there is any doubt between a panic attack vs a heart attack, it is very important to go to the hospital. The most reliable way to rule out a heart attack is through cardiac tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG).
Key differences
The main differences between anxiety and a heart attack are:
What causes anxiety
The exact causes of anxiety are still not fully understood. However, it is likely related to a combination of genetic factors, such as a family history of anxiety, environmental factors such as problems at work or in relationships or family life, and brain chemicals that affect the areas of the brain responsible for controlling fear.
What causes a heart attack
A heart attack happens when blood flow to the heart is reduced or blocked because of a buildup of fat in the coronary arteries.
Some factors may contribute to the development of a heart attack, such as smoking, high blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol or low HDL cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity, and a family history of heart attack or heart disease.
According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, these are important risk factors for coronary artery disease and heart attack.
Also recommended: What Causes a Heart Attack? 9 Possible Causes tuasaude.com/en/what-causes-a-heart-attackCan anxiety cause a heart attack?
Anxiety does not usually cause a heart attack, but it may increase the risk of heart disease.
When symptoms are very intense or lead to a panic attack, the risk of a heart attack may also be higher.
What to do
Seek medical help immediately if someone has signs or symptoms of a heart attack. A heart attack can be life-threatening and needs urgent treatment. According to the American Heart Association, calling 911 is the fastest way to get lifesaving care.
If there’s any uncertainty about whether the symptoms are caused by a heart attack or a panic attack, it’s always safest to seek medical attention right away.
Confirming a diagnosis
When a heart attack is suspected, the diagnosis is confirmed in a hospital setting through an evaluation of symptoms, vital signs, and diagnostic tests such as an electrocardiogram and blood analyses for cardiac enzymes.
Anxiety, on the other hand, is diagnosed by a psychologist or psychiatrist based on reported symptoms, personal and family history of anxiety or other mental health conditions, and laboratory tests to rule out underlying medical causes.
Treatment options
Treatment for a heart attack may involve medications such as antiplatelet agents, anticoagulants, and antihypertensives (blood pressure medications), which help improve blood flow to the heart. In some cases, emergency cardiac catheterization or angioplasty may also be needed.
Treatment for anxiety is usually guided by a psychiatrist and may involve therapy and medications such as antidepressants or anxiolytics. Therapy can help identify the causes of anxiety and build tools and skills to manage excessive stress.
In addition, there are home remedies for anxiety, such as chamomile tea or lemon balm tea, that may help complement medical or psychological treatment.