Severe chest pain, sudden sweating, and irregular breathing can be symptoms of a panic attack, but they can also be symptoms of a heart attack. In the event that you or one of your family members experiences these symptoms, it is important to be able to differentiate between the two cases. Here's the difference between a heart attack and a panic attack.
Differences between a panic attack and a heart attack
The main symptom of a heart attack is constricting pain.
Heart attack
Those who are experiencing a heart attack describe the chest pain as constriction.
1. As a general rule, pain appears in the center of the chest. It can move down the length of the left arm and along the back.
2. The pain of a heart attack can also spread to the neck, teeth and jaw area.
3. The intensity of heart attack pain can change.
4. The pain of a heart attack lasts more than five minutes. It does not normally affect a person's breathing.
5. A person experiencing a heart attack may feel a prickly sensation, which is generally confined to the left arm in most cases. This is often accompanied by a cold, clammy sweat, along with feelings of nausea and vomiting.
6. At the peak of a heart attack, a person may experience fear that focuses on constricting chest pain. They are afraid of dying.
7. Heart attack patients may experience rapid breathing, when fear of heart attack triggers a panic attack.
8. If you, a family member or a friend of yours experience these symptoms for more than five minutes, call an ambulance. Get to the hospital as soon as possible.
Panic attack
The main symptom of a panic attack is a prickly feeling.
1. Many people are under the misconception that only something horrible or tragic can trigger a panic attack. The truth is, a panic attack can occur in the most common circumstances.
2. Symptoms of a panic attack usually peak after about ten minutes.
3. The pain of a panic attack is concentrated in the chest. It rises and then falls.
4. During a panic attack, a person may experience a prickly and numb feeling. These sensations are not limited to the left arm. They can appear on the right arm, legs, and fingers.
5. During a panic attack, people often experience irrational fears. They may feel like they are choking or going crazy.
If you are not sure what is happening to you, consult a doctor immediately for a more accurate answer. Waiting is never the best solution.
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