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Can Anxiety Trigger a Heart Attack? Expert Weighs In
23 Jun
Summary
- Panic attacks and heart attacks share similar frightening symptoms.
- Healthy individuals rarely have heart attacks from panic attacks.
- Chronic anxiety increases heart disease risk and impacts existing conditions.
Panic attacks and heart attacks can be easily confused due to their similar symptoms, such as chest pain, sweating, and numbness.
Cardiovascular surgeon Dr. Jeremy London explained that while symptoms overlap, the underlying causes differ significantly. Heart attacks involve blocked coronary arteries, whereas panic attacks result from a surge of stress hormones. A healthy heart can generally tolerate a panic attack.
However, Dr. London cautioned that persistent anxiety should not be overlooked. Chronic, frequent panic attacks can increase the risk of heart disease, and may exacerbate existing heart conditions. He emphasized that effective treatments for anxiety are available and encouraged seeking medical attention if symptoms are concerning.
It is crucial to seek immediate medical evaluation when experiencing chest pain or other related symptoms to accurately distinguish between a panic attack and a potential heart attack.
