Panic Attacks vs. Anxiety Attacks: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve ever felt your heart racing, your chest tightening, or your thoughts spiraling out of control, you might have wondered— was that a panic attack or an anxiety attack? Though the terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to different experiences with unique features. Let’s break down the key differences between panic attacks and anxiety attacks , what causes them, and how you can find help—whether it's through an in-person visit or a convenient telehealth appointment . What Is a Panic Attack? A panic attack is a sudden, overwhelming surge of fear or intense discomfort that typically peaks within 10 to 15 minutes , though it may last longer in some cases. What makes panic attacks especially frightening is that they often happen without warning —even when you're not actively feeling stressed or anxious. One moment you might feel fine, and the next, your body reacts as if it's in serious danger. People experiencing a panic attack often feel l...