Possibility of panic disorder causing a heart attack? My heart is pounding very intensely.

Possibility of panic disorder causing a heart attack? My heart is pounding very intensely.

Although it feels like the heart is under strain, heart palpitations caused by panic attacks are generally not life-threatening.

On the other hand, a heart attack is a very dangerous condition that occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked or reduced, cutting off oxygen supply to the heart muscle. It mainly occurs when arteries are blocked or damaged, requiring immediate emergency treatment. The main symptoms of a heart attack include severe pressure starting in the center of the chest, pain radiating to the arms, neck, or jaw, shortness of breath, cold sweat, and loss of consciousness.

The heart palpitations caused by panic attacks are a very anxious and frightening experience, but it is rare for the heart itself to sustain serious damage. However, if panic disorder occurs repeatedly, stress hormones such as adrenaline are continuously secreted, which can raise blood pressure and increase heart rate. If this state persists over the long term, it can put a strain on the heart, so actively managing panic disorder is important.

The likelihood of a panic attack directly leading to a heart attack is extremely low. However, there may be exceptional cases if there is an underlying heart condition. If someone with pre-existing heart disease experiences extreme anxiety or stress, it can place additional strain on the heart. Therefore, individuals with both panic disorder and heart disease should carefully monitor these symptoms and consult with healthcare professionals.

When your heart is pounding extremely hard, the most important thing is to calm yourself down. The first step is to breathe slowly through deep breathing and recognize that the current situation you are facing is a panic attack. Additionally, lifestyle improvements such as regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and a balanced diet can greatly help in managing panic disorder. If necessary, managing panic disorder through cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or medication is also a good option.