How can you tell the difference between a panic attack and a heart attack or pulmonary embolism? Symptoms experienced were sudden shortness of breath, tingling that started in both hands then spread to both arms, nose and chin, no chest pain, slight nausea, extreme anxiety, neck pain for a week before any other symptoms, and back pain between the shoulder blades. Patient is an 18-yr old female with no history of health problems, non smoker, had a baby 8 months ago, history of mild anxiety disorders and a few previous panic attacks, not on any medications, normal weight, no high blood pressure except while pregnant, but very high fat/cholesterol diet and little activity.

panic if it was a heart attack u wouldnt be typing and i have the same pain now on my left shoulder and it cuases hand numbness take deep slow breathes take a shower and get ur blood flowing and do a little activity u might have poor circulation as i have so dont worry...im 16 so i thought it was a heart attack to its not i went to the emergency room and no chest pain means itz not a heart attack ur chest is in the middle of ur chest and sever

The symptoms of a heart attack are pretty specific. A tightening of the chest that progressively gets worse. Like bricks on your chest. A numbing or paralysing of the left arm. Nausea and vomiting are also common. A panic attack is more general as far as symptoms go. It basically is an "all over tingling" or feeling like you are just going to pass out. It almost feels like your brain is telling you you are in danger and to run or feel fear. Heart attacks statistically are uncommon in 18 year old, while panic attacks are way more common. Obviously if these occurrences continue medical attention is needed. Even for anxiety attacks. Good luck to you all.