The first signs of an anxiety attack and a heart attack are often similar. This can make it hard for people to recognise the condition aptly which further leads to a delay in providing the right first aid. Since anyone can experience either of the attacks at any stage of their lives, it is essential to know the difference and stay aware of not only the signs and symptoms but also the immediate action plan. But first, let’s start with understanding what causes the two attacks.

Both anxiety attack and heart attack are sudden episodes and strike without a warning. However, panic attacks and anxiety attacks occur as the result of the body’s ‘fight or flight’ response as the stress hormones are triggered during this, leading to severe physical reactions and an intense feeling of fear/anxiety. On the other hand, a heart attack is a medical emergency that occurs when heart muscles do not receive the required amount of blood due to an artery blockage.

Symptoms of an Anxiety Attack

• Intense chest pain
• Increased heart rate
• Sudden onset of anxiety (usually due to extreme stress)
• Sweating
• Tingling in the hands
• Shortness of breath

Symptoms of a Heart Attack

• Intense, squeezing and escalating pain and pressure in the chest
• Sudden onset of chest pain and discomfort (usually due to physical exertion)
• The pain may radiate to the arms, shoulders and/or jaw
• Sweating
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea, vomiting and near fainting

While most of the key symptoms of an anxiety attack and a heart attack are indistinguishable from each other, one of the distinctive characters is that the latter usually occurs while performing a vigorous physical activity like running or climbing up the stairs, whereas, an anxiety attack may occur at rest. Also, the pain and symptoms of an anxiety attack usually resolve within 20-30 minutes contrary to the chest pain caused due to a heart attack that continues or can even worsen over time. However, one must not wait for the pain and symptoms to worsen or relieve on their own to identify the condition.

The heart attack symptoms are observed to be milder in women which makes it further hard to distinguish it from an anxiety attack. If the person has never experienced either of the attacks before and is unable to understand the actual cause, immediate medical attention must be sought to prevent critical complications. One can contact a doctor over the phone to understand the situation and take measures accordingly.

Can an anxiety attack lead to a heart attack?

Heart attacks are caused due to insufficient blood supply to the heart muscles. Neither an anxiety attack nor a panic attack can cause a heart attack since they affect the hormonal balance and not the blood supply or arteries. However, multiple such attacks or long-term stress and anxiety can affect one’s heart health over time, increasing the chances of developing heart diseases.

When to visit a doctor?

In case you or your loved ones experience any of the above-mentioned symptoms, it is suggested to contact a doctor immediately and seek emergency medical attention. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are vital to minimise the damage and recover successfully. HJ Hospitals is a multi-speciality hospital, well-equipped to provide the best-in-class healthcare facilities to the people of Kinshasa and around. Contact today to get a full-body health checkup or save our emergency helpline number - 0815586555, to seek the best medical facilities anytime, anywhere.