Are You Mistaking a Panic Attack for a Heart Attack?

Have you ever felt a sudden rush of fear for no reason? Your heart races, it’s hard to breathe, and you feel like something bad is about to happen.

You might think you are having a heart attack, but this might actually be a panic attack, and it can happen anywhere, anytime.

Panic attacks and heart attacks can feel the same, one of the reasons why the former gets mistaken for the latter. Both have symptoms like chest pain, fast heartbeat, and trouble breathing—but they are different. A panic attack is caused by stress. It can happen while resting and usually goes away in about 20 minutes. A heart attack happens when blood can’t reach the heart. It often starts during physical activity and doesn’t go away on its own.

A panic attack is a sudden and intense wave of fear. It shows up out of nowhere, even when there's no danger around. During an attack, your body reacts strongly—you might feel like your heart is racing, you can't breathe, or you're shaking. Some people even think they’re having a heart attack or dying. It’s scary, but it’s not life-threatening.

Around 35% of people experience one at some point in their lives. But if the attacks happen again and again, and you start to worry constantly about having another one, that could be a sign of panic disorder. Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder wherein people with this condition have repeated, unexpected panic attacks. This fear can get so intense that they start avoiding certain places or situations—like going outside or being alone—to feel safe.

Even though panic attacks don’t harm your body, they can hurt your quality of life. Some people also experience panic attacks alongside other conditions like anxiety disorders, phobias, mood disorders, or even certain medical problems.

Although not everyone who has a panic attack will develop the disorder, but if panic attacks keep happening and start to control how you live, it’s important to seek help—because treatment can really make a difference.

What Causes a Panic Attack?

Doctors and scientists aren’t exactly sure what causes panic attacks, but they believe it’s related to how the brain and body respond to fear. A part of the brain called the amygdala helps process fear and strong emotions. Sometimes, it sends out a false alarm, making the body react as if there’s danger—even when everything is safe.

Possible Causes

Certain brain chemicals also play a role. When chemicals like cortisol, serotonin, and GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) are out of balance, a person may be more likely to have panic attacks. The brain and nervous system work together to manage stress, so when something goes wrong, it can lead to an overreaction and trigger a panic attack.

• Overactive amygdala (part of the brain that handles fear)
• Imbalance in brain chemicals like cortisol, serotonin, and GABA
• Misfiring of the body’s “fight or flight” response

Risk Factors

Several risk factors can increase the chance of having panic attacks.

• Family history of anxiety or panic disorders
• Other mental health issues, like depression or anxiety
• Childhood trauma, such as abuse or neglect
• Chronic stress or sudden life stress, like a loss or accident
• High caffeine intake
• Intense physical activity
• Hyperventilation (breathing too fast)
• Hot, crowded, or stuffy environments

Sometimes panic attacks happen with no clear reason at all. This unpredictability can make people even more anxious, not knowing when the next one might occur.

What Are the Symptoms of a Panic Attack?

Panic attacks might hit while you're driving, shopping, sleeping, or even sitting quietly. It comes fast, and the symptoms often peak within 10 minutes. After the attack ends, you may feel drained.

You might feel a strong sense of fear or that something terrible is about to happen. Some people feel like they’re losing control or about to die. Others describe a choking feeling or a tight chest. You could have a fast, pounding heart, sweating, shaking, or feel dizzy. Shortness of breath is common, and some people get chills, nausea, or even hot flashes.

Other symptoms include:

• Chest pain
• Tingling or numbness in your hands, arms, or face
• Feeling detached from reality or your body
• A dry mouth or tense muscles
• Lightheadedness or the urge to escape

These symptoms can feel intense, even terrifying. That fear alone may make you want to avoid places or situations where a panic attack might happen again.

Sometimes, panic-like symptoms happen due to other medical conditions. That’s why it’s important to check with a healthcare provider if you’ve had these symptoms. They can help rule out other causes and offer support.

Final Take

Panic attacks can feel sudden and overwhelming, but understanding what’s happening inside your body and brain can help you face them with more clarity. They may come without warning and seem to make no sense, but they are real, common, and manageable. If they start to affect your daily life, don’t ignore them—getting the right help and support can make things better.