What distinguishes a panic attack from an anxiety attack?

A panic attack is characterized by its sudden onset and drastic intensity, peaking within minutes, which is what distinguishes it from other types of anxiety responses. The symptoms of a panic attack can become overwhelming very quickly, often leading to feelings of intense fear or discomfort that can include physical symptoms like heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and a sense of losing control.

In contrast, anxiety attacks generally develop more gradually and do not peak as sharply or quickly. They often arise in response to stressors or anxiety-provoking situations and can last for a prolonged period without the sudden intensity found in a panic attack. This immediate and overwhelming nature of panic attacks sets them apart and is crucial to understanding the distinction between these experiences.