Panic attack vs heart attack is a much-debated topic, with many believing that one is far worse than the other. After all, a heart attack can kill you, but a panic attack can’t, right? Wrong. While it is true that a heart attack can be fatal, panic attacks can be just as deadly. Statistics show that panic attacks are responsible for more deaths yearly than heart attacks. So why don’t we hear about them more? People more aware of the dangers of panic attack vs heart attack. The answer may lie in the way we think about these two conditions. Heart attacks are often seen as medical emergencies, while panic attacks are not. This perception may lead to people downplaying the seriousness of their symptoms and, as a result, not seeking necessary medical help. ### Topic: 5 Signs You’re in an Emotionally Abusive Relationship Intro: No one deserves to be in an emotionally abusive relationship. Unfortunately, many people find themselves in one without even realizing it. Emotional abuse can be just as damaging as physical abuse, yet it’s typically harder to spot because it’s not physical. If you’re not sure whether your relationship is healthy or not,
What is the difference between a panic attack and a heart attack?
When it comes to physical symptoms, a panic attack and a heart attack can feel very similar. Both can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and an increased heart rate. And because the symptoms of a panic attack can mimic those of a heart attack, it’s not uncommon for people to mistake one for the other.
So what’s the difference between a panic attack and a heart attack? For starters, panic attacks are far more common than heart attacks. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about 6 million American adults experience panic disorder in any given year. In contrast, the American Heart Association reports that nearly 735,000 Americans have a heart attack yearly.
Panic attacks also tend to be shorter than heart attacks. While the symptoms of a panic attack can last from minutes to hours, the symptoms of a heart attack typically stay for at least 20 minutes.
Finally, while the cause of a panic attack is typically psychological (i.e., anxiety or stress), the reason for a heart attack is almost always physical (i.e., blockage of an artery). So if you’re experiencing chest pain and shortness of breath, you must see a doctor immediately to rule out a heart problem.
Statistics on panic attacks vs. heart attacks
Panic attacks and heart attacks share some symptoms, but are different. Here is a look at the statistics on panic attacks vs. heart attacks.
According to the National Institutes of Health, about 6 million American adults have panic disorder yearly. Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder that is characterized by recurring panic attacks. A panic attack is a period of intense fear or discomfort that lasts several minutes. During a panic attack, people may have physical symptoms such as a racing heart, shortness of breath, or chest pain.
In contrast, the American Heart Association estimates that about 735,000 Americans have a heart attack yearly. A heart attack occurs when the blood supply to the heart muscle is blocked. This can happen due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries (a condition called coronary artery disease) or because of a blood clot. Heart attacks can be fatal, but many people who have them go on to lead entire and healthy lives.
So, while both panic attacks and heart attacks can be scary experiences, it’s important to remember that they are different conditions with different statistics. If you think you are having either type of event, you must seek medical help immediately to get the treatment you need.
Why do the statistics not show the actual severity of panic attacks?
There are several reasons why the statistics don’t show the actual severity of panic attacks:
- Many people with panic attacks don’t seek medical help because they don’t think it’s necessary or because they’re embarrassed.
- Even when people seek medical help, doctors may not recognize panic attack symptoms and attribute them to other conditions.
- Many people with panic attacks don’t have them every day or week, so they may not be captured in the data.
All these factors combine to create a situation in which the actual severity of panic attacks is underestimated. This is unfortunate, as many people suffering from this condition don’t get the help they require. If you think you might have a panic attack, it’s essential to seek medical help immediately.
The effects of panic attack on the sufferer
When a person experiences a panic attack, it can be a very frightening and overwhelming experience. The physical symptoms can include chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, and nausea. These symptoms can cause the person to feel like they have a heart attack or will die. This can lead to a lot of anxiety and fear.
Panic attacks can also significantly impact the sufferer’s mental health. They can cause the person to feel anxious and stressed all the time, leading to problems with sleep, concentration, and mood. Panic attacks can also make it difficult for the sufferer to go about their daily life and may cause them to avoid certain situations or places they associate with the attacks.
All of these effects can have a significant impact on the quality of life of the sufferer. If you or someone you know is struggling with panic attacks, it is essential to seek professional help so that they can get the support and treatment they need.
Conclusion
While it’s true that panic attack vs. heart attack can be difficult to distinguish, the fact remains that both conditions can be hazardous. If you think you may be experiencing either, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Don’t wait until it’s too late — get help right away.
