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| Meta Title | What Does a Panic Attack Feel Like? Symptoms,Triggers and Preventions |
| Meta Description | Panic attacks are sudden episodes of severe fear that can make a person feel like they are having a heart attack or dying. |
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| Boilerpipe Text | Panic attacks are sudden episodes of severe fear that can make a person feel like they are having a heart attack or dying. Learn what panic attacks feel like and how to prevent them.
Panic attacks
are sudden episodes of severe and debilitating fear that can occur at any time without a clear cause. But, what does it feel like to have a panic attack? Physically, a panic attack may make a person feel like they are having a heart attack. They may not be able to breathe properly and find it difficult to move. Some people may even think they are dying, even though there is no real threat to their physical health. Panic attack sufferers often report feeling like they are in physical danger or losing mental control.
Panic Attack Symptoms
The signs of a panic attack include both
physical and emotional symptoms
. Panic attacks begin suddenly and symptoms typically peak within a few minutes. People concerned with experiencing a panic attack may wonder, “What are the symptoms of a panic attack, and how can you tell if you’re having one?”
Panic attack physical symptoms include:
Chest pain
Rapid heartbeat
Dizziness
Shortness of breath
Sweating
Trembling
Chills
Nausea
Hot flashes
Numbness
Panic attack emotional symptoms include:
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Fear of dying
Fear of losing control
Fear of physical danger
How to Tell the Difference Between a Panic Attack and Heart Attack
Panic attacks and heart attacks share several symptoms, including chest pain and a racing heartbeat. The severe stress and
anxiety
that can cause panic attacks can also lead to heart attacks. Although the two conditions can appear to be similar, there are several significant
differences
between panic attacks and heart attacks.
The primary symptoms of panic attacks include:
Rapid heart rate
Sharp chest pain that lasts under 10 seconds
Pain limited to one area of the body
Pain that occurs while resting or while feeling anxious
Pain that gets better or worse when changing positions
The most common signs of heart attacks include:
Shortness of breath
Chest pain that intensifies over a few minutes
Pain that moves from the chest to other areas of the body
Pain that is triggered by physical exertion
Constant chest pain or pressure
If a person is uncertain about their symptoms, they should seek medical help right away. If a heart attack is suspected, call 911 for immediate attention.
Panic Attack Triggers
People who have experienced a panic attack before may wonder what causes or what triggers panic attacks. There are several panic attack triggers, including:
Phobias
, such as the fear of social situations, public speaking or enclosed spaces
Underlying
mental health
conditions, such as
post-traumatic stress disorder
Stress
brought on by significant life events, such as graduating from college, the death of a loved one, divorce or job loss
Panic disorder
, a type of anxiety disorder characterized by ongoing concern or worry about future panic attacks
The anticipation of future fearful situations or future panic attacks
Genetic predisposition
Use of
stimulants
, such as caffeine or
amphetamines
Medical conditions such as heart problems, overactive thyroid function, and low blood sugar
Medication
withdrawal
How to Tell if Someone Is Having a Panic Attack
People who have never experienced a panic attack may wonder how to recognize a panic attack in a loved one or coworker. When someone appears to be having a panic attack, a medical emergency such as a heart attack should be ruled out first. A person experiencing a panic attack may be breathing quickly and shallowly and sweating and trembling. The person may report feeling lightheaded, nauseous or unable to breathe. If they have experienced a panic attack before, they may be able to say so.
While
assisting a person experiencing a panic attack
, remain calm and talk to them in brief, simple sentences. If possible, try to help them slow their breathing by asking them to match a slow breathing rate. Remove them from any potential triggering situations, such as a large group or enclosed space, and bring them to a quiet, calm location. Remain with them until the panic attack ends. Encourage the person to seek help from a medical professional for their panic attacks.
How to Prevent Panic Attacks
There are several techniques to prevent or cope with panic attacks, and each person may need to utilize different strategies. Prevention strategies include:
Avoiding triggering situations
Practicing slow, controlled breathing
Meditating to decrease stress and focus on the present
Focusing on objects or stimuli in the environment, such as sounds or sights
Distracting oneself by counting backward or squeezing a stress ball when a panic attack is imminent
Exercising regularly
to decrease stress and anxiety
Using medications to treat panic attacks, such as
benzodiazepines
, beta-blockers,
selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
(SSRIs) or
serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors
(SNRIs)
Undergoing
cognitive behavioral therapy
, a form of treatment that emphasizes thinking about the emotions behind different thoughts and behaviors |
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[Home](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/) \> [What is Mental Illness? Mental Health & Addiction Treatment](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/) \> [Panic Disorder: Understanding, Managing, and Treating Overwhelming Fear](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/panic-disorder/) \> What Does a Panic Attack Feel Like?
# What Does a Panic Attack Feel Like?
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- [Panic Attack Symptoms](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/panic-disorder/what-does-a-panic-attack-feel-like/#iframe-trv-form-intake)
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- [Panic Attack Triggers](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/panic-disorder/what-does-a-panic-attack-feel-like/#iframe-trv-form-intake)
- [How to Tell if Someone Is Having a Panic Attack](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/panic-disorder/what-does-a-panic-attack-feel-like/#iframe-trv-form-intake)
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### Panic attacks are sudden episodes of severe fear that can make a person feel like they are having a heart attack or dying. Learn what panic attacks feel like and how to prevent them.
[Panic attacks](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/panic-disorder/panic-attacks/)are sudden episodes of severe and debilitating fear that can occur at any time without a clear cause. But, what does it feel like to have a panic attack? Physically, a panic attack may make a person feel like they are having a heart attack. They may not be able to breathe properly and find it difficult to move. Some people may even think they are dying, even though there is no real threat to their physical health. Panic attack sufferers often report feeling like they are in physical danger or losing mental control.
## Panic Attack Symptoms
The signs of a panic attack include both[physical and emotional symptoms](https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/panic-disorder-agoraphobia/symptoms). Panic attacks begin suddenly and symptoms typically peak within a few minutes. People concerned with experiencing a panic attack may wonder, “What are the symptoms of a panic attack, and how can you tell if you’re having one?”
**Panic attack physical symptoms include:**
- Chest pain
- Rapid heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Trembling
- Chills
- Nausea
- Hot flashes
- Numbness
Panic attack emotional symptoms include:
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- Fear of dying
- Fear of losing control
- Fear of physical danger
## How to Tell the Difference Between a Panic Attack and Heart Attack
Panic attacks and heart attacks share several symptoms, including chest pain and a racing heartbeat. The severe stress and[anxiety](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/anxiety/)that can cause panic attacks can also lead to heart attacks. Although the two conditions can appear to be similar, there are several significant[differences](https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/heart-health/how-to-tell-difference-between-a-heart-attack-and-a-panic-attack)between panic attacks and heart attacks.
The primary symptoms of panic attacks include:
- Rapid heart rate
- Sharp chest pain that lasts under 10 seconds
- Pain limited to one area of the body
- Pain that occurs while resting or while feeling anxious
- Pain that gets better or worse when changing positions
The most common signs of heart attacks include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain that intensifies over a few minutes
- Pain that moves from the chest to other areas of the body
- Pain that is triggered by physical exertion
- Constant chest pain or pressure
If a person is uncertain about their symptoms, they should seek medical help right away. If a heart attack is suspected, call 911 for immediate attention.
## Panic Attack Triggers
People who have experienced a panic attack before may wonder what causes or what triggers panic attacks. There are several panic attack triggers, including:
- [Phobias](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/phobias/), such as the fear of social situations, public speaking or enclosed spaces
- Underlying[mental health](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/)conditions, such as[post-traumatic stress disorder](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/ptsd/)
- [Stress](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/stress/)brought on by significant life events, such as graduating from college, the death of a loved one, divorce or job loss
- [Panic disorder](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/panic-disorder/), a type of anxiety disorder characterized by ongoing concern or worry about future panic attacks
- The anticipation of future fearful situations or future panic attacks
- [Genetic predisposition](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6232935/)
- Use of[stimulants](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/stimulant-addiction/), such as caffeine or[amphetamines](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/amphetamine-addiction/)
- Medical conditions such as heart problems, overactive thyroid function, and low blood sugar
- Medication[withdrawal](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/drug-addiction/withdrawal/)
## How to Tell if Someone Is Having a Panic Attack
People who have never experienced a panic attack may wonder how to recognize a panic attack in a loved one or coworker. When someone appears to be having a panic attack, a medical emergency such as a heart attack should be ruled out first. A person experiencing a panic attack may be breathing quickly and shallowly and sweating and trembling. The person may report feeling lightheaded, nauseous or unable to breathe. If they have experienced a panic attack before, they may be able to say so.
While[assisting a person experiencing a panic attack](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/first-aid/panic-attacks/), remain calm and talk to them in brief, simple sentences. If possible, try to help them slow their breathing by asking them to match a slow breathing rate. Remove them from any potential triggering situations, such as a large group or enclosed space, and bring them to a quiet, calm location. Remain with them until the panic attack ends. Encourage the person to seek help from a medical professional for their panic attacks.
## How to Prevent Panic Attacks
There are several techniques to prevent or cope with panic attacks, and each person may need to utilize different strategies. Prevention strategies include:
- Avoiding triggering situations
- Practicing slow, controlled breathing
- Meditating to decrease stress and focus on the present
- Focusing on objects or stimuli in the environment, such as sounds or sights
- Distracting oneself by counting backward or squeezing a stress ball when a panic attack is imminent
- [Exercising regularly](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/resources/fitness-and-nutrition/)to decrease stress and anxiety
- Using medications to treat panic attacks, such as[benzodiazepines](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/benzodiazepine-addiction/), beta-blockers,[selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/treatment-program/addiction-medications/ssris/)(SSRIs) or[serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/treatment-program/addiction-medications/snris/)(SNRIs)
- Undergoing[cognitive behavioral therapy](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/treatment-program/addiction-therapies/cognitive-behavioral/), a form of treatment that emphasizes thinking about the emotions behind different thoughts and behaviors
## Find A Center Near You
Find The Recovery Village Drug, Alcohol and Mental Health Rehab nearest you.
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[PrevRead PreviousWhat Does Social Anxiety Feel Like?](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/social-anxiety-disorder/what-does-social-anxiety-feel-like/)
[Read NextParanoid Personality Disorder: Symptoms, Risk Factors & TreatmentNext](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/paranoid-personality-disorder/)
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#### Medical Disclaimer
The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.
### Sources
Anxiety and Depression Association of America “[Panic Disorder](https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/panic-disorder).” Accessed July 3, 2019.
Gleeson, Jane. “[How to Tell the Difference Between a Heart Attack and a Panic Attack](https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/heart-health/how-to-tell-difference-between-a-heart-attack-and-a-panic-attack).” Michigan Health, May 26, 2016. Accessed July 3, 2019.
Leibold, Nicole; Schruers, Koen. “[Assessing Panic: Bridging the Gap Between Fundamental Mechanisms and Daily Life Experience](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6232935/).” Frontiers in Neuroscience, October 24, 2018. Accessed July 3, 2019.
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#### Medical Disclaimer
The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.
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| Readable Markdown | ### Panic attacks are sudden episodes of severe fear that can make a person feel like they are having a heart attack or dying. Learn what panic attacks feel like and how to prevent them.
[Panic attacks](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/panic-disorder/panic-attacks/)are sudden episodes of severe and debilitating fear that can occur at any time without a clear cause. But, what does it feel like to have a panic attack? Physically, a panic attack may make a person feel like they are having a heart attack. They may not be able to breathe properly and find it difficult to move. Some people may even think they are dying, even though there is no real threat to their physical health. Panic attack sufferers often report feeling like they are in physical danger or losing mental control.
## Panic Attack Symptoms
The signs of a panic attack include both[physical and emotional symptoms](https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/panic-disorder-agoraphobia/symptoms). Panic attacks begin suddenly and symptoms typically peak within a few minutes. People concerned with experiencing a panic attack may wonder, “What are the symptoms of a panic attack, and how can you tell if you’re having one?”
**Panic attack physical symptoms include:**
- Chest pain
- Rapid heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Trembling
- Chills
- Nausea
- Hot flashes
- Numbness
Panic attack emotional symptoms include:
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- Fear of dying
- Fear of losing control
- Fear of physical danger
## How to Tell the Difference Between a Panic Attack and Heart Attack
Panic attacks and heart attacks share several symptoms, including chest pain and a racing heartbeat. The severe stress and[anxiety](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/anxiety/)that can cause panic attacks can also lead to heart attacks. Although the two conditions can appear to be similar, there are several significant[differences](https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/heart-health/how-to-tell-difference-between-a-heart-attack-and-a-panic-attack)between panic attacks and heart attacks.
The primary symptoms of panic attacks include:
- Rapid heart rate
- Sharp chest pain that lasts under 10 seconds
- Pain limited to one area of the body
- Pain that occurs while resting or while feeling anxious
- Pain that gets better or worse when changing positions
The most common signs of heart attacks include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain that intensifies over a few minutes
- Pain that moves from the chest to other areas of the body
- Pain that is triggered by physical exertion
- Constant chest pain or pressure
If a person is uncertain about their symptoms, they should seek medical help right away. If a heart attack is suspected, call 911 for immediate attention.
## Panic Attack Triggers
People who have experienced a panic attack before may wonder what causes or what triggers panic attacks. There are several panic attack triggers, including:
- [Phobias](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/phobias/), such as the fear of social situations, public speaking or enclosed spaces
- Underlying[mental health](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/)conditions, such as[post-traumatic stress disorder](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/ptsd/)
- [Stress](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/stress/)brought on by significant life events, such as graduating from college, the death of a loved one, divorce or job loss
- [Panic disorder](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/panic-disorder/), a type of anxiety disorder characterized by ongoing concern or worry about future panic attacks
- The anticipation of future fearful situations or future panic attacks
- [Genetic predisposition](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6232935/)
- Use of[stimulants](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/stimulant-addiction/), such as caffeine or[amphetamines](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/amphetamine-addiction/)
- Medical conditions such as heart problems, overactive thyroid function, and low blood sugar
- Medication[withdrawal](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/drug-addiction/withdrawal/)
## How to Tell if Someone Is Having a Panic Attack
People who have never experienced a panic attack may wonder how to recognize a panic attack in a loved one or coworker. When someone appears to be having a panic attack, a medical emergency such as a heart attack should be ruled out first. A person experiencing a panic attack may be breathing quickly and shallowly and sweating and trembling. The person may report feeling lightheaded, nauseous or unable to breathe. If they have experienced a panic attack before, they may be able to say so.
While[assisting a person experiencing a panic attack](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/first-aid/panic-attacks/), remain calm and talk to them in brief, simple sentences. If possible, try to help them slow their breathing by asking them to match a slow breathing rate. Remove them from any potential triggering situations, such as a large group or enclosed space, and bring them to a quiet, calm location. Remain with them until the panic attack ends. Encourage the person to seek help from a medical professional for their panic attacks.
## How to Prevent Panic Attacks
There are several techniques to prevent or cope with panic attacks, and each person may need to utilize different strategies. Prevention strategies include:
- Avoiding triggering situations
- Practicing slow, controlled breathing
- Meditating to decrease stress and focus on the present
- Focusing on objects or stimuli in the environment, such as sounds or sights
- Distracting oneself by counting backward or squeezing a stress ball when a panic attack is imminent
- [Exercising regularly](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/resources/fitness-and-nutrition/)to decrease stress and anxiety
- Using medications to treat panic attacks, such as[benzodiazepines](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/benzodiazepine-addiction/), beta-blockers,[selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/treatment-program/addiction-medications/ssris/)(SSRIs) or[serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/treatment-program/addiction-medications/snris/)(SNRIs)
- Undergoing[cognitive behavioral therapy](https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/treatment-program/addiction-therapies/cognitive-behavioral/), a form of treatment that emphasizes thinking about the emotions behind different thoughts and behaviors |
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