Understanding panic attacks vs anxiety attacks can help you get the right care. Many people use these terms the same way. However, they are not the same thing.
Both can feel scary and overwhelming. But they have different symptoms, triggers, and treatments. In this guide, we’ll explain how to tell them apart. We’ll also share when you should seek help.
What Is a Panic Attack?
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, panic attacks are sudden episodes of intense fear that trigger severe physical reactions when there is no real danger.
A panic attack hits suddenly and without warning. It feels like a wave of intense fear that peaks within minutes. Many people think they are having a heart attack or dying.
Panic attacks come out of nowhere. You might be relaxing at home when one strikes. Or you could be driving to work. There doesn’t need to be a clear trigger.
Common symptoms of a panic attack include:
- Racing or pounding heartbeat
- Chest pain or tightness
- Shortness of breath
- Shaking or trembling
- Sweating
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Numbness or tingling
- Fear of losing control or dying
- Feeling detached from reality
Most panic attacks last 5 to 20 minutes. After that, symptoms start to fade. However, you may feel tired or drained for hours afterward.
What Is an Anxiety Attack?
An anxiety attack builds up slowly over time. It usually connects to a specific worry or stressor. For example, you might feel anxious about a job interview or a medical test.
Unlike panic attacks, anxiety attacks don’t come out of nowhere. You can often see them coming. The worry grows bigger and bigger until it becomes hard to handle.
Common symptoms of an anxiety attack include:
- Restlessness or feeling on edge
- Muscle tension
- Trouble sleeping
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Increased heart rate
- Excessive worry
Anxiety attacks can last much longer than panic attacks. Some people feel anxious for hours, days, or even weeks. The symptoms are usually less intense but more constant.
The Anxiety and Depression Association of America notes that anxiety disorders are the most common mental health condition in the U.S., affecting over 40 million adults.
Panic Attacks vs Anxiety Attacks: Key Differences
Now, let’s compare panic attacks vs anxiety attacks side by side. This will help you understand which one you might be experiencing.
| Panic Attack | Anxiety Attack | |
|---|---|---|
| Onset | Sudden, no warning | Gradual, builds over time |
| Trigger | Often none | Usually tied to specific worry |
| Intensity | Extreme, overwhelming | Moderate to high |
| Duration | 5-20 minutes | Hours, days, or weeks |
| Physical symptoms | Intense (chest pain, can’t breathe) | Moderate (tension, fatigue) |
Both types can make daily life hard. However, knowing the difference helps you find the right treatment.
Why Does This Difference Matter?
Understanding panic attacks vs anxiety attacks matters for your treatment plan. Each type responds better to different approaches.
For panic attacks, your provider might focus on:
- Medications that work quickly
- Learning to recognize early warning signs
- Breathing techniques to use during an attack
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
For anxiety attacks, your provider might suggest:
- Daily medication to reduce overall anxiety
- Therapy to address the root cause of your worry
- Lifestyle changes like exercise and sleep habits
- Stress management techniques
Also, knowing what you’re dealing with reduces fear. Many people worry that their panic attacks mean something is seriously wrong. Once you understand what’s happening, you feel more in control.
When Should You See a Psychiatric Provider?
You should see a psychiatric provider if your symptoms:
- Happen often
- Interfere with work, school, or relationships
- Make you avoid certain places or activities
- Cause you to feel hopeless or out of control
- Don’t get better on their own
In addition, seek help right away if you have thoughts of hurting yourself. A mental health crisis is serious and needs immediate care.
Both panic attacks and anxiety attacks respond well to treatment. So don’t wait to get help. The sooner you start, the sooner you can feel better. Not sure if your symptoms are serious? Learn more about the signs it’s time to seek psychiatric help.
Treatment Options for Panic and Anxiety Attacks in Las Vegas
At MindWell Psychiatric Services in Las Vegas, we help people manage both panic and anxiety. Our provider, Michael Kuron, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, takes time to understand your symptoms. Then he creates a treatment plan just for you.
Your treatment might include:
- A full psychiatric evaluation to understand your symptoms
- Medication management to find what works best
- Genetic testing to help choose the right medication faster
- Ongoing support and follow-up care
We accept many insurance plans. We also offer same-day appointments for cash-pay patients. Above all, we want to make mental health care easy to access.
Tips for Managing Panic and Anxiety Symptoms at Home
While you work with a provider, these tips can help you cope with symptoms at home.
During a panic attack:
- Focus on slow, deep breaths
- Remind yourself the attack will pass
- Ground yourself by naming 5 things you can see
- Avoid fighting the feelings—let them flow through you
For ongoing anxiety:
- Limit caffeine and alcohol
- Exercise regularly
- Practice relaxation techniques daily
- Keep a worry journal to track triggers
- Talk to someone you trust
These strategies work best alongside professional treatment. However, they can provide relief when symptoms strike.
Take the First Step Today
Panic attacks and anxiety attacks feel different, but both deserve attention. You don’t have to live with constant fear or worry. Help is available.
If you’re in Las Vegas and need support, MindWell Psychiatric Services is here for you. Contact us today to schedule your first appointment. Together, we’ll find a path toward better mental health.
FAQs
What's the difference between a panic attack and an anxiety attack?
Panic attacks hit suddenly without warning and peak within minutes, often with intense physical symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath. Anxiety attacks build gradually, usually in response to a specific stressor, and can last much longer, with symptoms like restlessness and muscle tension.
Can you have both panic attacks and anxiety attacks?
Yes. Many people experience both. You might have an underlying anxiety disorder that occasionally triggers panic attacks, or you might experience them separately. A psychiatric evaluation can help identify what’s happening.
How long do panic attacks last?
Most panic attacks last 5 to 20 minutes, though you may feel tired or drained for hours afterward. If symptoms last longer than 20-30 minutes, it may be anxiety rather than a panic attack.
Should I go to the ER for a panic attack?
If it’s your first panic attack or you’re unsure what’s happening, it’s reasonable to seek medical attention to rule out cardiac or other issues. Once you know you experience panic attacks, you can work with a psychiatric provider to develop coping strategies.
What triggers anxiety attacks?
Anxiety attacks are usually tied to a specific worry or stressor — like a job interview, health concern, financial problem, or relationship issue. Unlike panic attacks, anxiety attacks typically have an identifiable trigger.
