How to Tell the Differences Between A Heart Attack and a Panic Attack

Both heart attacks and panic attacks can cause similar symptoms, so it's not surprising, then, that many people confuse the two, potentially interfering with appropriate — and sometimes lifesaving — care.

However, while they may feel similar when they happen, these attacks affect the body in dramatically different ways. Telling the difference between a heart attack and a panic attack plays a key role in avoiding serious complications while also providing you with important peace of mind.

In this post, Mikhail Kapchits, MD, Marina Neystat, MD, Maria Dolgovina, MD, Ivan Mikolaenko, MD, and the Advanced Medical Care team offer a quick comparison of these two conditions to help you get the treatment you need as quickly as possible.

Heart attacks vs. panic attacks

Heart attacks and panic attacks can cause similar symptoms, and differentiating between the two can be challenging. However, there are a few subtle differences that may help.

Triggers

One possible way to tell the difference between a heart attack and a panic attack is by considering the events just before your symptoms. 

Heart attacks often occur during or immediately after strenuous physical activity, especially if you’re not used to being active. Panic attacks are usually preceded by a stressful event, such as an argument with a boss or loved one, or having to speak in front of a crowd.

That said, it’s important to note that stressful events can trigger heart attacks, too, and some heart attacks can occur even when you’re resting — so this isn’t a 100 percent reliable difference.

Onset

Onset is another factor that can help you tell the difference between a heart attack and a panic attack. While panic attacks occur very suddenly, many heart attacks begin gradually or involve subtler symptoms, like arm or jaw pain or sudden fatigue. 

However, many heart attacks also occur suddenly, causing intense feelings of pain, dread, and chest tightness. Once again, this factor alone isn’t completely foolproof.

Duration and symptoms

Most panic attacks have a relatively short duration, resolving within about an hour or less. Heart attacks can involve multiple symptoms that become worse over time. While both can cause chest pain, heart attacks also frequently include feelings of intense pressure or pain that radiates into your jaw, arm, or upper back. 

Next steps to take

While panic attacks and heart attacks have very different causes and complications, they share similar symptoms, and the differences between those symptoms can be subtle. Bottom line: If you’re having any symptoms that could be associated with a heart attack, call 911; it’s better to be safe than sorry. 

If you have any personal or family history of heart problems or if you have risk factors for heart disease, like hypertension, high cholesterol, or weight issues, having a heart evaluation is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your heart and reduce your risk of heart attacks in the future.

To have your heart health evaluated, request an appointment online or over the phone today with the Advanced Medical Care team in Forest Hills, Queens, and Brighton Beach, Brooklyn, New York.