Arjun Reddy Arjun Reddy Asked 7 months ago

Am i having a heart attack or anxiety attack?

Yesterday night, I suddenly felt extreme chest tightness, breathlessness, and my arm felt numb. It passed after some time, but I'm scared. How can I tell if it was a heart attack or just a very bad anxiety attack?

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6 answers

Sneha Nair Sneha Nair Joined Feb 2026 7 months ago
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I used to get these sudden chest tightness episodes and it always scared me to death. If it goes away when you calm down or distract yourself, it might be anxiety. But honestly, if the pain is heavy, crushing, or making you sweat, please don't take any chances and call an ambulance right away.

Aditi Rao Aditi Rao Joined Feb 2026 7 months ago

I know exactly how terrifying this moment is, and your fear is completely valid. It is incredibly hard to tell them apart when your chest feels tight and your heart is racing. However, if you have severe chest pain, radiating pain in your arm or jaw, or shortness of breath, please go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Nandita Das Nandita Das Joined Mar 2026 7 months ago

Feeling like you might be having a heart attack when it’s actually panic is one of the most frightening emotional experiences. Please don't feel embarrassed to seek medical help. Go get evaluated by a professional right now to ensure you are physically safe and to ease your mind.

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Consult a cardiologist

Ramesh Patil Ramesh Patil Joined Mar 2026 7 months ago

Do not waste time trying to guess between the two on your own. If you have any risk factors like high BP or diabetes, chest discomfort should never be ignored. Go straight to a local clinic or hospital for an ECG; it takes only five minutes and will give you clear answers.

Vikram Malhotra Vikram Malhotra Joined May 2026 6 months ago

I was just reading about this yesterday because my uncle had a scare. Apparently, anxiety attacks usually peak within 10 minutes, but a heart attack doesn't just fade away and gets worse with physical exertion. If you are in doubt or feeling severe discomfort, please consult a doctor right away.

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Abhinav Sharma Abhinav Sharma Joined May 2026 6 months ago

With our high-stress jobs, anxiety is very common, but heart issues can also present similarly. If you are experiencing sudden heavy chest pain, sweating, or dizziness, do not wait or search online. Go to a hospital emergency immediately to get checked by a doctor.

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