Know the Difference Between a Panic Attack vs Heart Attack

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Have you ever experienced a tightening in your chest and shortness of breath? If so, you’ve probably wondered if you should go to the ER. And don’t get us wrong: if you think you’re in the middle of an emergency, stop reading now and call 911! However, if you have anxiety, you might want to know the difference between a panic attack vs heart attack.

Remember, though: an article can’t diagnose you. Regardless of your symptoms, it helps to see a doctor, such as a cardiologist or a psychiatrist. That said, we’ll get into the symptoms of a heart attack and panic attack. That way, you know what type of care to seek out!

The Difference Between a Panic Attack vs Heart Attack

Panic attacks and heart attacks have similar symptoms. In fact, some people who suffer from panic attacks sometimes go to the emergency room thinking they’re having a heart attack.

Here are some of the symptoms that they have in common:

Chest tightness
Breaking out in cold sweats
Elevated heart rate
Shortness of breath
The urge to vomit

A reason exists for the similarities: panic attacks and heart attacks both impact your heart. However, panic attacks can’t kill you, but heart attacks can if you don’t give them the proper medical attention.

Panic Attacks

People who experience panic attacks can get them at any time of the day. Sometimes, panic attacks even occur when they’re sleeping. The symptoms usually remain really intense for a few minutes up to a few hours.

So, if your symptoms don’t subside after a period of time, you should seek medical attention.

What to Do If You’re Having Panic Attacks

Panic attacks often feel scary, especially if you’ve never had them before. If you’re having a panic attack, you have a strong chance of having an anxiety disorder. Several types of anxiety disorders exist, including:

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). This disorder consists of obsessive, involuntary thoughts that cause anxiety. To alleviate the anxiety, the person then performs a certain behavior. Mental health professionals call these behaviors “compulsions.”
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). People who have GAD experience persistent and excessive anxiety about everyday problems.
Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD). SAD causes people to have anxiety in social situations. The severity of the anxiety varies from mild to severe.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). If you’ve had persistent flashbacks or ongoing anxiety about a traumatic event, you may have PTSD.

Your exact diagnosis depends on your specific symptoms, and several types of professionals have the ability to diagnose you. For example, you can see a psychiatrist, psychologist, counselor, or even general practitioner.

Treatment might include learning coping mechanisms, taking medication, and going to talk therapy. If you can’t afford to go to a professional, take magnesium from Vimergy for an over-the-counter option.

Heart Attacks

When you have a heart attack, you feel a lot of pain concentrated around your chest area. It may even shoot down your arm or into your neck and jaw. If you’re having pain, you should always seek out immediate medical attention.

In general, heart attacks tend to occur after the person undergoes strenuous physical activity. But this doesn’t mean you should avoid exercise because consistent exercise and healthy eating prevent heart attacks.

Increased hydration also helps you stave off severe heart problems. If you want to get more out of drinking water, add in some Liquid I.V. These packets contain a flavored powder that dissolves into your drink. Then, when you drink it, you’ll receive better hydration faster.

If your family has a history of heart attacks, you’re at an increased chance of having one. So, you should consult with your doctor and see what lifestyle factors you should consider to keep yourself healthy.

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Stay Healthier

Now that you know the difference between a panic attack vs heart attack, it’s time for us to share some resources to have a healthier life. We publish a variety of articles on maintaining your physical and mental health.

For example, if you need more nutrients, take these supplements!