A panic attack can feel like a heart attack: a pounding heart, chest tightness, shortness of breath, dizziness, tingling and a sense of doom. The symptoms are real and physical, and understanding where they come from is one of the most effective first steps in treatment.
The alarm system misfiring
Your body has a built-in alarm, the fight-or-flight response. When it fires, adrenaline floods your system: the heart speeds up, breathing quickens, muscles tense and blood shifts toward large muscles. In a panic attack, the alarm goes off when there is no danger.
Why breathing matters
Fast breathing lowers carbon dioxide in the blood, which causes lightheadedness, tingling in the hands and lips, and chest tightness. Those sensations feel frightening and can drive the panic higher. Slow breathing, with a longer breath out than in, helps break the cycle.
How long panic lasts
Most panic attacks peak within about 10 minutes and fade within 20 to 30 minutes, even though they feel endless at the time.
Rule out a medical cause first
Chest pain, fainting or shortness of breath should be checked medically, especially the first time, if you have heart risk factors, or if the symptoms are different from your usual. Thyroid problems, heart rhythm problems and caffeine can also cause panic-like symptoms. Call 911 for chest pain if you are unsure.
Treatment works
Panic disorder is very treatable. Cognitive behavioral therapy teaches the body and mind that the alarm is false, and medication can help when clinically appropriate. Learn more about our care for panic attacks.
Our providers see adults in person in West Ashley and by secure video anywhere in South Carolina. Request an appointment; new patients are often able to be scheduled within a week of requesting an appointment.
This article is general health information and does not replace advice from your own provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
They can feel alike. Chest pain should be checked medically, especially the first time or if you have heart risk factors. When in doubt, call 911.
Most panic attacks peak within about 10 minutes and fade within 20 to 30 minutes.
Slow breathing with a longer breath out than in, reminding yourself the sensations are the body's alarm and will pass, and staying where you are rather than fleeing. Cognitive behavioral therapy builds these skills.