Is this panic or heart problem?

I awakened the other night out of a dead sleep and my heart was racing so fast I couldn't count the beats.  I also had heart palipatations and was trembling all over.  This lasted for almost 45 minutes.  I had the same reaction about 2 weeks ago, but it only lasted 5 minutes.  Could this be a heart problem or a panic attack.  How can you have a panic attack while sleeping.  I was in a very deep sleep and not even dreaming.  I was so terrified and didn't know whether to call 911 or not.  I kept thinking any minute it would go away or else once they got there it would then be gone.  How long can your heart race at that pace without causing damage?  I never want to go through this again, however, now I have the anxiety every night that it will happen again.

[HFHS MD -RG]

Dear Phil,

A panic attack is defined as a discrete period of intense discomfort accompanied by four or more of the following symptoms that develop abruptly and reach a peak within ten minutes- palpitations, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain,
nausea, dizziness, fear of losing control, fear of dying, hot flashes. Panic attacks are not uncommon and can occur in a number of disorders including Panic Disorder.  Panic attacks may also awaken you from sleep.

It is not uncommon for panic attacks to last for 20-30 minutes but it usually lasts less than an hour. Symptoms of panic attacks may mimic some medical conditions such as anemia, hypoglycemia, heart arrhythmia, and hypothyroidism, among others.

It is best that you a general medical doctor for an evaluation.

The information provided in this Forum is presented for general educational purposes only. Specific questions you have pertaining to your health should always be directed to your personal physician or you may call Henry Ford Behavioral Health at [phone] for an evaluation.

I wish you the best,

HFHS MD - RG

*Keyword: Anxiety