Medical Expert: Panic Attack Vs. Heart Attack

College of Osteopathic Medicine (NYITCOM) Associate Professor of Family Medicine Matthew Heller, D.O., has been quoted in a Costco Connection article detailing panic attacks and heart attack symptoms, triggers, and care. The two conditions often present very similarly in patients, including a racing heart, shortness of breath, and lightheadedness, but a heart attack can cause serious complications if not promptly treated by a professional.

“It’s important to identify a heart attack as soon as possible, because blocked blood flow to the heart can cause muscle damage and potential muscle death,” says Heller. For those who believe they are suffering a panic attack, Heller recommends the 5-5-5 rule—breathing in, holding the breath, and exhaling, each for five seconds.