What is the difference between panic and anxiety attacks?

The terms 'panic attack' and 'anxiety attack' are often used interchangeably outside medical circles. This can leave people confused as to which they are suffering from. However, there is a clear distinction although there are often crossovers between panic and anxiety disorders.

Many of the symptoms of anxiety attacks and panic attacks are the same. This can include chest pains, shortness of breath, an accelerated heart rate, muscle pains and dizziness. But there are differences in the onset, severity, duration and whether the experience is predominantly physical or psychological.

Anxiety attacks typically have a slow build up and an identifiable trigger. They can be brought on by a past event, for example a person may become overly anxious about their health following a health scare, or by worrying about the future, such as worrying about imminent job cuts. The symptoms and worry intensify gradually and may last from a few minutes to a few weeks.

Panic attacks are a more physical than psychological experience and occur very suddenly, often with no obvious cause. The panic attack has much more severe symptoms than an anxiety attack and sufferers may fear they are dying. It is common for people to seek emergency room treatment during a panic attack, even if they have had previous attacks and are aware what is happening to them. The experience normally lasts between 10 minutes and an hour, although occasionally several panic attacks occur in quick succession giving the appearance of an attack lasting several hours.

Despite anxiety attacks and panic attacks being a different health issue, there are strong links between the two problems as one can lead to the other. An anxiety sufferer has much greater odds of experiencing a panic attack. Similarly, a person who has no previous history of anxiety but who has a panic attack may develop an anxiety disorder. This is because the panic attack can be so traumatic the sufferer becomes unnecessarily anxious about their health or the possibility of dying, or they start actively avoiding situations similar to those they experienced the attack in.

Both panic and anxiety disorders can be debilitating and feel like they are dominating your life. However, they are both treatable and can be overcome with the necessary time and support.