Why do panic attacks feel like your having a heart attack?

zizzer · Post by **zizzer** » Sat Jan 17, 2009 4:58 am

It was about 2months ago, I was outside and my chest started hurting so bad. I thought I was having a heart attack. I went to ER and they told me it was my anxiety. I thought I was having a real heart attack. I couldn't breath, my chest was so tight. My heart really hurt.

eyesolated · Post by **eyesolated** » Sun Jan 18, 2009 6:35 pm

well i'm not a doctor or anything but, i think they're close to heart attacks because they trigger the same flight or fight responses that a real life and death situation would. Thus, the chemicals released will make your muscles and blood vessels contract and the adrenaline makes your heart race. The trick is to take control of the situation realize it's just anxiety and breathe. At least that's what's been working for me. It's definitely a terrifying feeling though.