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Although both can take your breath away, a heart attack and panic attack have two very different outcomes. A panic attack may feel as though you’re suffocating, but a heart attack truly is a life-threatening event.
The NHS explained a heart attack occurs when blood supply to the heart muscle is “suddenly interrupted”.
When this happens, the muscle may “begin to die” and symptoms of a heart attack can vary.
For example, a person who suffers from an overwhelming sense of anxiety – akin to a panic attack – could be having a heart attack.
In fact, many symptoms of a panic attack and heart attack do overlap. To illustrate, both of the conditions can lead to:
- Chest pain
- Nausea
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
With this in mind, how can you tell the difference between the two conditions?
Additional symptoms associated with a heart attack include chest pain travelling from the chest to another body part.
Examples include chest pain travelling to the left arm, jaw, neck, back and tummy.
People suffering from a heart attack may not only experience nausea, they may also physically vomit.
Those who may be having a heart attack may be coughing or wheezing, and they may sweat.
The NHS certified: “It’s the overall pattern of symptoms that helps to determine whether you are having a heart attack.”
If you suspect you or someone else is having a heart attack, call 999 for an ambulance.
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“Paramedics would rather be called out to find an honest mistake has been made than be too late to save a person’s life,” assured the national health body.
Meanwhile, people suffering from a panic attack may experience chills and hot flushes.
Other signs of a panic attack include: a racing heartbeat, shaky limbs, a choking sensation, pins and needles, a dry mouth and ringing in the ears.
During a panic attack, “you get a rush of intense mental and physical symptoms”, explained the NHS.
Even though panic attacks can be frightening, they’re not considered dangerous.
If panic attacks occur regularly, it’s advisable to book an appointment with your GP.
Talking therapies and medicine are the main treatments for this condition.
During a panic attack, it may help to “stay where you are, if possible” and to not fight the sensation.
Allow it to wash over you while you “breathe slowly and deeply” – the attack will pass.
Remember, “it’s not life-threatening” and try to “focus on positive, peaceful and relaxing images”.
To help prevent a further attack, it’s a good idea to “do regular physical exercise to reduce stress and tension”.
Reading a self-help book on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) may also be useful.
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