Panic Attack vs. Anxiety Attack: Are They Same?

What are the Key Differences Between Anxiety & Panic Attack?

Usually, people perceive panic and anxiety attacks as identical, but they are not! They’re different conditions.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) defines anxiety as a feature of several common psychiatric disorders.

In contrast, panic attacks happen suddenly, often involve intense & overwhelming fear, and are accompanied by very challenging physical symptoms, like nausea, a fast heart rate, and breath shortness.

Panic Attack & Anxiety Attack

Panic Attack Emotional Symptoms

  • A sense of detachment from the world or oneself
  • Fear of dying or losing control
  • Extreme fear
  • Anxiety Attack Emotional Symptoms
  • Restlessness
  • Distress
  • Anxiety
  • Worry
  • Fear

Common Physical Symptoms of Panic & Anxiety Attacks

  • Sweating
  • Headache
  • Dry mouth
  • Breath shortness
  • Trembling/shaking
  • Chills or hot flashes
  • Numbness or tingling
  • Tightness in the throat
  • Feeling faint or dizziness
  • Increased heart rate or heart palpitations
  • Upset stomach, abdominal pain, or nausea

Causes of Panic & Anxiety Attacks

The most common triggers include:

  • Driving
  • Caffeine
  • Stressful job
  • Social situations
  • Thyroid problems
  • Medication and supplements
  • Withdrawal from drugs or alcohol
  • Reminders/memories of traumatic experiences
  • Chronic pain or illnesses, such as heart disease, diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, or asthma
  • Phobias, such as agoraphobia (fear of crowded or open spaces), claustrophobia (fear of small spaces), and acrophobia (fear of heights)

Risk Factors of Panic & Anxiety Attacks

People with anxiety have a high risk of experiencing panic attacks. However, having anxiety does not mean you will experience a panic attack. Both have similar risk factors, which include:

  • Using drugs or alcohol
  • Having an anxious personality
  • Experiencing a stressful life event
  • Experiencing trauma or traumatic events
  • Experiencing ongoing stress and worries
  • A chronic health condition or life-threatening illness
  • Having mental health disorders, such as depression
  • Having close family members who also have anxiety or panic disorders

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