How do anxiety attacks and panic attacks differ?

Anxiety and panic attacks are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Both can cause intense fear and discomfort, but there are important differences between them. Understanding these differences is essential to getting the right treatment and managing these conditions effectively.

---

Anxiety Attack

An anxiety attack is a sudden onset of intense fear or discomfort that peaks within minutes and lasts for a short period, typically no more than 30 minutes.

During an anxiety attack, the person may experience sweating, shaking, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and nausea. These symptoms of anxiety attacks can be overwhelming and make the person feel like they are losing control or having a heart attack.

Specific situations, such as public speaking, flying, or general stress and worry, often trigger anxiety attacks. They are a natural response to stress and do not necessarily indicate a mental health condition. However, if the attacks are frequent or severe enough to interfere with daily life, they may indicate an anxiety disorder.

Some common signs of an anxiety attack include:

• Feeling tense or on edge
• Restlessness or irritability
• Racing heartbeat or heart palpitations
• Sweating, trembling, or shaking

A panic attack is a sudden and intense episode of fear or discomfort that peaks within minutes and can last for up to an hour (David Garrison/ Pexels)

---

Panic Attack

A panic attack is a sudden and intense episode of fear or discomfort that reaches a peak within minutes and can last for up to an hour. Unlike an anxiety attack, a panic attack can occur unexpectedly without an obvious trigger. The symptoms of a panic attack are similar to those of an anxiety attack, but they may be more severe and include a feeling of impending doom or a fear of dying.

During a panic attack, the person may experience chest pain, palpitations, sweating, shaking, shortness of breath, and nausea. These symptoms can be so severe that they may lead the person to avoid certain situations or develop agoraphobia, a fear of being in places where escape may be difficult or embarrassing.

Some common signs of a panic attack include:

• Racing heartbeat or heart palpitations
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Sweating, trembling, or shaking
• Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
• Nausea or stomach upset

---

Differences Between Anxiety and Panic Attacks

The main difference between anxiety and a panic attack is the trigger. Anxiety attacks are often triggered by specific situations or stressors, while panic attacks can occur unexpectedly without an obvious trigger. Panic attacks are typically more intense and can last longer than anxiety attacks.

The main difference between an anxiety attack and a panic attack is the trigger (Andrea Piacquadio/ Pexels)

Another difference between the two is the duration of the symptoms. Anxiety attacks typically last for a shorter period, usually no more than 30 minutes, while panic attacks can last for up to an hour. Panic attacks can also cause more severe symptoms and may lead to agoraphobia if left untreated.