Chest pain and Panic Attacks
Chest pain has been reported as a symptom associated with Panic Attacks in medical literature. Learn what this association means, other symptoms of Panic Attacks, and the tests providers may use to investigate it. Educational content only - not a diagnosis.
What does chest pain have to do with Panic Attacks?
In the medical literature, chest pain is one of the symptoms reported in association with Panic Attacks. This means people with Panic Attacks may experience chest pain, but it does not mean chest pain always indicates Panic Attacks - it can have many other causes.
Sudden episodes of intense fear with physical symptoms such as palpitations, sweating, and breathlessness.
Tests used to investigate Panic Attacks
Healthcare providers may order these tests when evaluating Panic Attacks.
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
Measures 14 substances in the blood to assess kidney and liver function, electrolyte balance, and blood sugar ...
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
Screens for thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism....
Other symptoms of Panic Attacks
These symptoms are also reported in association with Panic Attacks.
Dyspnea
Difficult or labored breathing. Dyspnea is a subjective feeling only the patient can rate, e.g., on a Borg sca...
Excessive Sweating
Sweating more than is needed to regulate body temperature, which can accompany fever, anxiety, hypoglycemia, o...
Fear of Dying
Intense fear of dying or losing control during a panic attack....
Palpitations
A sensation that the heart is pounding or racing, which is a non-specific sign but may be a manifestation of a...
Paresthesia
Abnormal sensations such as tingling, pricking, or numbness of the skin with no apparent physical cause....
Tremor
An unintentional, oscillating to-and-fro muscle movement about a joint axis....
Frequently Asked Questions
Can chest pain be a sign of Panic Attacks?
Chest pain is among the symptoms reported in association with Panic Attacks in medical literature. Symptoms vary widely between individuals, and chest pain can occur for many reasons unrelated to Panic Attacks. This information is educational, not a diagnosis.
What else can cause chest pain?
Chest pain can be associated with many conditions beyond Panic Attacks. Explore the chest pain page to see a broader list of reported associations. Always discuss your symptoms with a qualified healthcare provider.
Which tests may be used if Panic Attacks is suspected?
A healthcare provider may order tests such as Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP), Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) when evaluating Panic Attacks. Test selection is a clinical decision made by a qualified professional.