Panic Attacks Symptoms and the Medical Conditions They Mimic - Don't Get Confused

Because panic attacks symptoms can closely mirror symptoms of other medical conditions, it is important to know when you are suffering from panic, versus an issue that may need immediate medical attention. Below, we list the sensations commonly reported during panic attacks, and provide additional information on what other conditions might also cause such symptoms.

PLEASE NOTE that this article has not been written or reviewed by a medical professional, and that if you believe you are experiencing any symptoms that put you in medical danger, seek immediate attention from your physician or at an emergency department. Never try to diagnose yourself.

Racing heartbeat; palpitations; chest pain: Naturally, the first medical condition that comes to mind here is a heart attack, and is not something that you want to second-guess on your own. If you have never experienced a panic attack, but are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is critical that you seek help immediately. Even if you have experienced these panic attacks symptoms in the past, if you are unsure, do not take a chance that you are experiencing another attack, but get yourself checked out.

Difficulty breathing or being unable to get enough air; choking. These symptoms could be caused by any number of medical conditions ranging from seasonal allergies to acute bronchitis. Anorexia and Anthrax poisoning can also mimic these symptoms, as can Osteoarthritis or the H1N1 virus. If you are in any situation where you cannot get your breathing under control, and you are not absolutely certain that you are experiencing panic attacks symptoms, then you will want to be looked at by a professional right away.

Nervousness; shaking or trembling. These are common panic attacks symptoms, but are also known to be caused by consumption of too much caffeine or alcohol, or may be simply due to being overly tired. On the other end of the spectrum, however, tremors can be caused by serious illnesses such as Parkinson's Disease, or Multiple Sclerosis. If you only experience these symptoms during a panic attack, then that is most likely what is causing them, however, if you continue to experience shaking or trembling even when you are not in the throes of an attack, it is a good idea to have some medical tests run to help find the cause.

Nausea and/or vomiting. While these are fairly common panic attacks symptoms, they could also be the result of a flu bug, food poisoning, or even pregnancy. The rule of thumb with these symptoms is in how long they continue. If you vomit or feel sick only during a panic attack, chances are good that you are not suffering from a more immediate condition. Prolonged vomiting, however, can cause dehydration and if you have been unable to keep food down for more than just a few days, it's time to see a doctor.

Profuse sweating. This, again, if encountered only during a panic attack, should not be cause for alarm. There are, however, many other conditions that can cause profuse sweating and these can include obesity, puberty, menopause, and even AIDS.