Know the difference between a heart attack and a panic attack

While having some similar symptoms, these are conditions that require different treatments.

Some heart attack and panic attack symptoms are similar and can often be confused. It is common for patients to arrive in hospitals and think they are having a heart attack when they are experiencing a panic attack. However, a few clues can help differentiate each to adequately treat the conditions.

“Everyone agrees that you shouldn’t take the risk that it’s not a heart attack. This is because the symptoms of a heart attack and panic attacks are so similar that it can sometimes be difficult to tell the difference. When in doubt, it’s better err as a precaution and be quickly evaluated in an emergency room to make sure it wasn’t a heart attack,” explains intensive care physician Dr. Caroline Reigada, a specialist in intensive care medicine at the Brazilian Association of Intensive Medicine.

Heart attack features

According to your doctor, heart attacks can be sudden and intense, but most start slowly, with pain or mild discomfort that gradually gets worse over a few minutes. “These episodes can come and go several times before the heart attack occur. A heart attack occurs when blood flow carrying oxygen to the heart muscle is severely reduced or stopped, usually due to blockage of the coronary arteries. Calling 911 and getting immediate care is essential,” he said.

Women are more prone to heart attacks

According to the doctor. Caroline Reigada, some heart attack symptoms can only appear in women. “Chest pain is the most common symptom, but women are slightly more likely to have other symptoms, such as shortness of breath, nausea, and back or jaw pain. A 2016 scientific statement from the American Heart Association stated that women are undertreated for heart attacks,” she explains.

However, the expert explains that the condition in women it is still a taboo to be deconstructed. “Despite decades of awareness-raising efforts, both patients and doctors fail to realize that heart disease is the leading cause of death for women,” says Dr.

Features of panic attacks

Panic attacks, on the other hand, aren’t “trifles” or “little things.” “It’s not all in your head. It’s the fight or flight response. The alarm system is going off. But with a panic attack, it’s burnt toast, not the house on fire.” This problem is a type of anxiety disorder that can cause repeated panic attacks. According to estimates, panic syndrome affects about 6 million Brazilians.

“Anxiety has become much more common since the pandemic started. panic attacks they occur quickly and usually reach maximum intensity within about 10 minutes. They can be triggered by a traumatic event or a major life stressor, but they can also occur for no apparent reason. They mess with your head and your brain can’t figure out what’s going on,” the pro points out.

consult an expert

The intensivist doctor reminds that, in case of panic attacks, it is essential to get help from a mental health professional, who can suggest therapies to reduce the fear of negative sensations. Panic disorder is very misunderstood, but very treatable, according to the doctor. “And while a panic attack can make you feel like you’re having a heart attack, a real heart attack is a medical emergency. […]”says the doctor.

Experts say women and men should discuss their risk of heart attack with a healthcare professional, who can help identify and treat risk factors such as to smoke, diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. However, the doctor points out, even people without risk factors can have heart disease. “So, when in doubt, a doctor should check,” concludes Dr. Caroline Reigada.

Edited by Maria Claudia Amoroso

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Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.