Heart Attack vs Anxiety Attack: Know the Difference & When to Rush to Emergency

Centra Care Hospital
Apr 9
3 min read

Chest pain is scary. Whether you are in Belagavi, Hubli, or — the first thought when feeling discomfort in the chest is often "Am I having a heart attack?" But did you know that anxiety attacks can sometimes mimic the symptoms of a heart attack? Understanding the difference between the two can help you act quickly and possibly save a life.

In this blog, we will explain how to differentiate between a heart attack and an anxiety attack, and when you must visit the best emergency hospital in Belagavi like CentraCare Hospital.

What is a Heart Attack?

A heart attack occurs when blood supply to the heart muscle is blocked due to a clot or narrowed artery. It is a serious and life-threatening condition.

Common Symptoms of Heart Attack:

Chest pain or pressure (may feel like a heavy weight on the chest)
Pain spreading to arms, jaw, back, or neck
Shortness of breath
Cold sweating
Nausea or vomiting
Feeling of impending doom

If you notice these symptoms, rush immediately to the nearest emergency heart care hospital like CentraCare Hospital Belagavi, which is known for its advanced cardiac care.

What is an Anxiety Attack (Panic Attack)?

An anxiety attack is an intense episode of fear or stress. Though not usually life-threatening, its symptoms often resemble those of a heart attack.

Common Symptoms of Anxiety Attack:

Chest discomfort or tightness
Rapid heartbeat (palpitations)
Feeling of choking or shortness of breath
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Sweating
Tingling in hands and feet
Fear of losing control or dying

These symptoms generally occur suddenly, peak within 10 minutes, and often improve with relaxation or breathing techniques.

Heart Attack vs Anxiety Attack: Key Differences

Feature	Heart Attack	Anxiety Attack
Chest Pain	Heavy, squeezing, pressure-like	Sharp or stabbing, less localized
Radiation of Pain	Often radiates to arms, jaw, back	Rarely radiates
Duration	Gradual onset, lasts more than 10-15 mins	Peaks within 10 mins, subsides faster
Trigger	Often physical activity, stress, or existing heart condition	Emotional stress, anxiety triggers
Relief	Needs immediate medical attention	Often improves with calm breathing

However, in real situations, even doctors rely on ECG and tests to confirm whether it's a heart attack. Never assume.

When Should You Rush to Emergency?

You should never take chances when it comes to chest pain. Rush to the nearest emergency hospital in Belagavi if:

The chest pain is severe and persistent
Pain spreads to other parts like arms or jaw
You have a known heart condition
You feel faint, short of breath, or sweaty
You are unable to differentiate whether it's stress or heart-related

At CentraCare Hospital Belagavi, you get 24x7 emergency heart attack care, advanced diagnostics, and immediate treatment.

Why Choose CentraCare for Emergency Heart Care?

Experienced Emergency and Cardiac Team
24/7 Emergency & Cardiac ICU Services
Advanced ECG, Echocardiography, and Diagnostics
Expert Heart Attack Treatment in Belagavi
Affordable and Quick Response System
Trusted by Patients from Karnataka and Nearby Maharashtra

Patients from Dharwad and even rural areas rely on CentraCare Hospital for emergency services.

Can Anxiety Attacks Lead to Heart Problems?

While anxiety attacks are usually not life-threatening, repeated anxiety can strain your heart and worsen blood pressure and sugar levels, especially if you already have existing heart disease. If you regularly face panic or anxiety attacks, consult a specialist and avoid self-diagnosis.

What to Do If You or a Loved One Experiences Chest Pain?

Stay calm, but act quickly
Call an ambulance or rush to the nearest hospital
Avoid driving yourself if you feel faint
At CentraCare Hospital Belagavi, emergency services are available 24/7
Never ignore symptoms thinking it might just be stress

Why Patients Trust CentraCare?

Recognized as the top cardiology hospital in Belagavi
Complete emergency & heart care under one roof
Immediate diagnosis to differentiate between heart attack and anxiety
Affordable care compared to larger city hospitals
Serving both Karnataka & Maharashtra patients

Heart attack or anxiety attack — both need attention. While anxiety attacks are usually manageable, chest pain should never be ignored. Only expert doctors and proper testing can differentiate between the two safely.

For immediate care, trust CentraCare Hospital Belagavi, offering the best emergency heart care across Belagavi, Hubli and nearby areas.

Stay alert, act fast, and never take chest pain lightly.