Differentiating Afib from Panic Attacks: A Guide
In the realm of heart conditions and anxiety disorders, two common conditions often find themselves in the same conversation - Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) and panic attacks. While both can cause symptoms that might seem alarming, they have distinct causes and treatments.
Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) is a condition where the upper chambers of the heart beat irregularly. This irregularity can cause an increase in heart rate and may result in a quivering or fluttering sensation in the chest. AFib episodes can vary widely in duration, typically lasting from seconds to up to 7 days in paroxysmal AFib, often stopping on their own within this timeframe. However, persistent or chronic AFib can last longer than 7 days and may require medical intervention to restore normal rhythm [1][2][3][5].
On the other hand, panic attacks are acute episodes of intense fear or discomfort, peaking within minutes and generally resolving within 20 to 30 minutes. They rarely last longer than an hour [knowledge]. Symptoms of a panic attack can include a fast or pounding heartbeat, dizziness or lightheadedness, hyperventilation or rapid breathing, feelings of hot or sweating, intense anxiety, panic, or dread, chest discomfort, feelings of faintness, shaking or trembling, nausea, a choking sensation, numbness or tingling, feelings of helplessness or out of control, derealization or feeling reality is distant or unreal, and depersonalization or feeling disconnected from oneself.
While both conditions can present with overlapping symptoms like palpitations and chest discomfort, clinical evaluation is essential for accurate diagnosis. It's important to note that if a person experiences symptoms such as sudden chest pain, pain in arms, neck, jaw, back, or abdomen, feeling or being sick, coughing or wheezing, they should call 911 or the nearest emergency department immediately.
In a person having a panic attack who has no heart problems, their heartbeat will be fast but regular in rhythm. In contrast, a person with AFib and tachycardia typically has a heart rate between 100-175 beats per minute.
Some smartwatches may have a level of accuracy in screening for AFib, but their accuracy is still being researched. Additionally, some researchers theorize that having an anxiety disorder may raise the risk of AFib, but no definitive connection has been proven. Panic attacks can be a sign of an underlying anxiety disorder, which are treatable.
Factors contributing to AFib include older age, heart conditions (congenital, coronary heart disease, atrial ischemia, heart valve disease), heart inflammation (myocarditis or pericarditis), high blood pressure, high alcohol consumption, overactive thyroid, diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, pulmonary embolism, asthma, COPD, and certain medications. Panic attacks can be triggered by temporary anxiety about specific events, phobias, trauma, anxiety disorders (including panic disorder, OCD, GAD, and depression), or the use or withdrawal of certain drugs.
Anxiety can trigger AFib episodes in people who already have the condition and may raise the risk of AFib returning after treatment. Therefore, it's crucial for individuals with both conditions to manage their anxiety levels effectively.
In summary, while both AFib episodes and panic attacks can cause symptoms that might seem similar, they have distinct causes and treatments. It's essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment if experiencing any symptoms.
| Condition | Typical Duration | Notes | |---------------------------|--------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------| | Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) | Seconds to up to 7 days | Often self-terminating; may last seconds-minutes or hours up to a week[2][3][5] | | Persistent/Chronic AFib | More than 7 days | Usually requires treatment to stop[3][5] | | Panic Attack | Minutes, usually 5-30 minutes | Peaks quickly and resolves usually within 20-30 min |
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3282995/ [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3453383/ [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4331865/ [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2864275/ [5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3115402/
- In the realm of health and wellness, discussions often revolve around two common conditions: Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) and panic attacks, both of which can cause distressing symptoms.
- Chronic Kidney Disease, Type-2 Diabetes, and neurological disorders like migraines are examples of chronic diseases that could potentially exacerbate the risk of experiencing anxiety disorders or panic attacks.
- Workplace-wellness programs focusing on mental health, fitness and exercise, nutrition, and skin care could play a crucial role in managing and minimizing panic attacks and anxiety disorders, including AFib.
- In the event of symptoms such as sudden chest pain, arms, neck, jaw, back, or abdomen pain, feeling or being sick, coughing or wheezing, it's essential to seek emergency medical help without delay.
- Some advanced technologies like smartwatches may offer some accuracy in screening for AFib, but their effectiveness is still under scientific evaluation.
- Research suggests that Managing mental health effectively, through various therapies and treatments, may help reduce the risk of AFib episodes in individuals who already have the condition.
- Factors contributing to AFib include heart conditions, high blood pressure, high alcohol consumption, diabetes, sleep apnea, pulmonary embolism, certain medications, and anxiety, which could trigger episodes or increase the risk of recurrence.
- Existing anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder, OCD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), and depression, may increase the risk of developing panic attacks.
- Individuals dealing with AFib and panic attacks should work closely with healthcare professionals to manage both conditions effectively, focusing on proper diagnosis, treatment, and maintenance of mental and physical health.
