Panic Attack vs Anxiety Attack, What’s the Difference?

Panic Attack vs Anxiety Attack Overview

Abrupt and intense feelings of terror accompanied by physical symptoms such as sweating, rapid breathing, and a racing heart define panic attacks. Individuals experiencing these episodes might, over time, develop anxiety disorders, specifically panic disorder.

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Anxiety Attack vs Panic Attack Key Differences and Similarities

Symptoms of Panic Attack vs. Anxiety Attack Chart

Causes of Anxiety vs Panic Attack

Why some people go through panic episodes or end up with panic disorder is still a bit of a puzzle for scientists. However, if you’re at a higher risk of anxiety disorders including panic attacks, it might be due to:

• If a close family member has a panic disorder, your risk increases by 40%.
• Depression or other mental health issues are more susceptible to panic attacks.
• Traumatic events between ages 1 and 17 can contribute to panic attacks.

Panic attacks usually don’t have a specific trigger, but individuals with specific phobias may experience panic due to related triggers. For instance, someone with a fear of needles might have an attack during a medical test. It’s worth noting that panic disorder criteria include attacks without a known trigger.

The Difference Between Anxiety Attack and Panic Attack Diagnosis

For both panic and general anxiety symptoms, a healthcare provider will inquire about what you’ve been feeling and your health history.

To rule out other conditions that mimic panic attacks, like heart or thyroid issues, they might request some lab tests.

The Difference Between Panic Attack and Anxiety Attack Treatments

Psychotherapy, medications, or a combination of both are very effective in treating panic attacks and anxiety disorders.

As an added benefit in patients with anxiety and panic attacks who also have concomitant comorbid medical illnesses, there are advantages of their therapeutic regimens that may also secondarily help their respective medical diseases. For instance, breathing training is a method of reducing panic attacks. Several of these slow-breathing methods have been shown to benefit patients with hypertension and asthma. Also, hyperventilation reduction can help patients with cardiovascular disease.

Most people will have a recurrence of anxiety disorder symptoms even after a symptom-free period. Treatment adherence is a significant issue, and thus, relapse of symptoms is common. According to research in the NCBI, only about 60% of patients achieve remission (a temporary recovery) within six months. Triggers for poor outcomes include:

• Chronic illness.
• High interpersonal sensitivity.
• Unmarried.
• Low social class.
• Living alone.

Anxiety disorders are linked with a higher risk of suicidal ideation. It is also associated with decreased quality of life as the patient cannot function normally in their social and family life. The disorders are correlated with an increased risk of comorbid medical conditions and smoking. [1]

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Psychotherapy for Panic Attacks vs Anxiety Attacks

Anxiety and panic disorder therapies exist in a variety of forms and are frequently combined:

• CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy): Helps you see things differently and cope with triggers, with support from a counselor.
• Cognitive Therapy: Targets and changes unhelpful thoughts linked to anxiety.
• Exposure Therapy: Gradual exposure to fears helps you face and manage them.
• Relaxation Techniques: Breathing exercises, imagery, and more, guided by your doctor.

Your doctor may suggest individual, group sessions, or a mix based on what works for you.

How to Help Panic and Anxiety Attacks with Medications?

Many of the non-addictive anti-anxiety medications are SSRIs or antidepressants.

Other most common anti-anxiety meds are:

• Benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax, Ativan).
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (e.g., Prozac, Zoloft).
• Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) (e.g., Effexor, Cymbalta).
• Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol).
• Buspirone (BuSpar).
• Tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., imipramine).
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) (e.g., Nardil, Parnate).
• Hydroxyzine (Vistaril).
• Gabapentin (Neurontin).
• Pregabalin (Lyrica).

Medication should only be taken under a licensed healthcare provider’s supervision. Never change your dose or self-prescribe without first seeing a doctor. Certain anti-anxiety drugs may interact with other medications or have unintended consequences, such as benzos being highly habit-forming. If you suffer adverse side effects, get help right away. Avoid drinking alcohol when taking specific drugs, and use caution when engaging in activities that call for attention since most anti-anxiety meds can cause drowsiness.

If you’re struggling with anxiety disorders and substance abuse, get resources about treatment counseling today. Start getting support with a free call to our mental health and addiction hotline.

Home Remedies for Panic vs Anxiety Attack

Whether you’re dealing with sudden episodes of panic or persistent feelings of anxiety, consider these remedies to help alleviate symptoms and promote a sense of calm:

• Deep breathing exercises.
• Mindfulness meditation.
• Progressive muscle relaxation.
• Herbal teas (e.g., chamomile).
• Aromatherapy with calming scents (e.g., lavender).
• Regular exercise.
• Adequate sleep.
• Limiting caffeine intake.
• Warm baths.
• Seeking social support.
• Journaling.
• Visualization techniques.
• Yoga.
• Cognitive-behavioral techniques.
• Listening to calming music.
• Taking breaks in nature.
• Dietary adjustments.
• Acupuncture.
• Massage therapy.
• Self-help books or resources.

For More Tips on How to Calm Anxiety Attacks

How Can I Prevent Panic/Anxiety Attacks?

Incorporating healthy lifestyle habits and stress-reducing strategies into your daily routine can significantly minimize the likelihood of experiencing anxiety episodes. Consider the following preventive measures:

• Regular exercise.
• Healthy diet.
• Adequate sleep.
• Stress management techniques.
• Deep breathing exercises.
• Mindfulness meditation.
• Progressive muscle relaxation.
• Limiting caffeine intake.
• Avoiding alcohol and recreational drugs.
• Establishing a routine.
• Setting realistic goals.
• Seeking social support.
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy.
• Identifying and challenging negative thoughts.
• Learning to say no and setting boundaries.
• Time management strategies.
• Regular breaks and self-care activities.
• Yoga or tai chi.
• Regular medical check-ups.
• Developing coping mechanisms.

If you’re seeking assistance with your rehab journey, reach out to a We Level Up Texas treatment professional today—your call is free and confidential.

We Level Up Texas Dual Diagnosis Rehab Center

The healthcare professionals at We Level Up Texas inpatient anxiety treatment and dual diagnosis rehab believe that addressing both the underlying issues and addiction together boosts the chances of successful, relapse-free recovery. Once we identify and start treating the mental health problems tied to alcohol or drug dependency, it brings individuals closer to long-term sobriety.

The symptoms of the multiple disorders that can occur alongside addiction can present complex and similar symptoms. Accurate diagnosis requires a highly trained professional team with years of experience.

Substance use disorders often start as a way to cope with anxiety issues and social status or as a form of self-medication. Some roots are situational, while others may be linked to brain imbalances. Acknowledging a mental health issue is a crucial step, leading to more effective treatment for concurrent alcoholism or drug addiction.

Professional guidance is essential to identify underlying conditions, and dual diagnosis treatment typically involves detox and a focused residency program to equip individuals with tools for long-term recovery.

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