Hello. There is no evidence to suggest panic attacks are the cause or a contribute to any type of physical illness, including heart attacks.

The symptoms of a panic attack can be so intense that it can make you feel like you are having a heart attack. The fear of having a heart attack can then add to your sense of panic.

They are many many symptoms of a panic attack that can be the same as a physical illness and are often mistaken.

May I suggest you see your GP if you have not already done so to discuss ways to cope with these attacks, such as breathing techniques and ways to reassure yourself during the attack. This will also be a reassurance to you weather it is panic attacks you are infact expiriencing

There are other conditions this could be, e.g over active thyroid but,again your GP will be able to rule this out pretty quickly and is unlikely.

" A panic attack can be very frightening and intense, but it is not dangerous. It will not cause you any physical harm."

--------- NHS WEBSITE-www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Panic-disorder/Pages/Introduction.aspx

The symptoms of a panic attack can be very frightening and distressing. Symptoms tend to occur very suddenly, without any warning, and often for no apparent reason. As well as overwhelming feelings of anxiety, a panic attack can also cause the following symptoms,see if yours sound simular:

• sensation that your heart is beating irregularly (palpitations),
• sweating,
• trembling,
• hot flushes,
• chills,
• shortness of breath,
• choking sensation,
• chest pain,
• nausea,
• dizziness,
• feeling faint,
• numbness, or pins and needles,
• dry mouth,
• a need to go to the toilet,
• ringing in your ears, and
• a feeling of dread, or a fear of dying.

The symptoms of a panic attack can be so intense that it can make you feel like you are having a heart attack. The fear of having a heart attack can then add to your sense of panic.

I myself have had panic disorder for 2 or 3 years called G.A.D which stands for genralized anxiety disorder. I am also a Carer to my disabled partner who has also had panic attacks before.1 in 10 of us do and that number is rising.

Hope this helps