Anxiety attack and chest pain

Because many of the symptoms of an anxiety attack (also called "panic attack") are similar to those of a heart attack, the former is often mistaken for the latter. Chest pain is not necessarily a symptom of each event, but it is very often, the reason why so many people suffering panic attacks end at once.

There are several types of chest pain, but not everyone is a symptom of a heart attack. Sore muscles of indigestion, Pleurisy, pinched nerves injured ribs, angina and gallbladder or pancreatic problems can also cause chest pain. Symptoms of some of these conditions can imitate those of a heart attack, that only a doctor can determine the cause. Others have enough significant differences that might not be necessary to consult a doctor.

The chest pain stemming from an anxiety attack falls into the latter category. If you know the differences between symptoms of the two, it is highly likely that you can determine on your own if you are having a heart attack or chest pain, associated with anxiety attack.

Location of chest pain is a good indicator if you are having a heart attack or anxiety attack. Anxiety chest pain is located above the heart and is described as "sharp". It increases with breathing in and out and usually does not last more than a few minutes. Pressing the chest also makes the pain worse. In heart attack, chest pain is located at the center of the chest and usually lasts for more than 10 minutes. It is not affected by pressing on the chest and breathing is usually normal, except that the fear of a heart attack or dying triggers a panic attack, causing hyperventilation.

Chest pain, heart attack feels like the chest is crushed or squeezed, as if an enormous weight or pressure is on it. Is more severe and longer lasting than chest pain anxiety attacks.

Anxiety attacks can cause chest pain, because when one feels threatened, adrenaline is automatically issued to prepare the body for flight. Adrenaline quickens the heart and breathing rates and causes muscles to contract. Palpitations may occur as well. Felt chest pains during an anxiety attack can be caused by the release of stomach acids and indigestion.

Symptoms of anxiety attack will respond positively to the techniques of control of panic. Deep breathing exercises and relaxation, the focus of the thoughts of switching to humorous or pleasant events or ideas, doing the math problems or counting can all draw attention from chest pain and other symptoms of panic attack, usually within a few minutes.

Fear of a heart attack that is generated by chest pains from an anxiety attack can actually do worsen symptoms of anxiety. Understand how anxiety attacks and chest pain work together and to know the differences between chest pain and anxiety caused by a heart attack can save you from even more anxiety and unnecessary trips to the emergency room.