Can You Pass Out From a Panic Attack?

Key Takeaways

• A panic attack is an intense surge of fear and anxiety that triggers the body’s “fight-or-flight” response (e.g., rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness).

• Although it may feel like you’re about to faint during a panic attack, actual loss of consciousness is very rare, because fainting typically happens when blood pressure drops, whereas a panic attack boosts heart rate and blood pressure. 

• The sensation of fainting is often caused by factors like hyperventilation (which alters carbon dioxide levels), dehydration, low blood sugar or standing still too long — these may overlap with panic-attack symptoms. 

• If you feel like you’re going to pass out during a panic attack, it helps to sit or lie down, slow your breathing (for example using box-breathing), ground yourself (e.g., using the 5-4-3-2-1 method), stay hydrated and nourished — and seek medical help if you lose consciousness, have chest pain or highly abnormal heart activity.

If you find yourself out of breath and on the verge of passing out, there’s a good chance you are suffering from a panic attack. Panic attacks are a symptom of clinical anxiety, which is a complex condition that requires professional treatment. Many first responders and veterans, due to trauma experienced in the line of duty, suffer from this condition. This article is for all those who serve others and now require some help of their own. 

Understanding Panic Attacks 

A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear that can trigger overwhelming physical and emotional symptoms. During an attack, your body goes into “fight-or-flight” mode, releasing adrenaline and raising your heart rate. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, dizziness, trembling, chest pain, and a feeling of losing control. 

For first responders and veterans, panic attacks are especially common due to repeated exposure to high-stress and traumatic situations. Over time, the nervous system can become more sensitive, making the body more prone to intense anxiety responses. 

First Responders and Anxiety Disorder 

First responders – military, police, and EMS – are at heightened risk of clinical anxiety due to their jobs. According to one study on anxiety disorder prevalence in first responders (in this case, military and police), 16% suffered from the condition in the aftermath of a terrorist attack. It called for tailoring mental health services to those first responders. 

Can You Actually Pass Out From Anxiety? 

Passing out from a panic attack is possible but relatively rare. Most people only feel like they’re about to faint, without ever losing consciousness. 

The reason is that anxiety raises blood pressure and heart rate. During a panic attack, your body goes into fight-or-flight mode, pumping adrenaline and speeding up your pulse. This makes fainting less likely because fainting usually happens when blood pressure drops suddenly. 

Fainting (syncope) works differently. Passing out occurs when your brain doesn’t get enough blood flow, usually from low blood pressure, dehydration, overheating, or standing too long without moving. 

Anxiety mimics the sensations of fainting. Rapid breathing, dizziness, chest tightness, and tunnel vision during a panic attack can feel like you’re about to pass out, even though your body is still getting enough oxygen and blood flow. 

That said, fainting during a panic attack can happen in rare cases, particularly if you: 

• Hyperventilate severely (causing a drop in carbon dioxide levels) 

• Have low blood sugar or are dehydrated 

• Already struggle with low blood pressure or certain medical conditions 

For first responders and veterans, the intensity of panic symptoms may feel especially overwhelming because of repeated trauma exposure and heightened stress responses. Still, true fainting remains the exception, not the rule.