A racing or pounding heartbeat is one of the most common panic attack symptoms. During a panic attack, the body’s natural fight-or-flight response is activated, even though there may be no real physical danger. When this response occurs, stress hormones such as adrenaline prepare the body to react by increasing the heart rate, speeding up breathing, and directing more blood to the muscles. These changes are a normal part of the body’s survival mechanism but can feel frightening when they happen unexpectedly. Many people experiencing a panic attack worry that the rapid heartbeat means they are having a heart attack or another serious heart problem. This fear can increase anxiety, making the heartbeat feel even faster and creating a cycle in which anxiety and physical symptoms reinforce each other. Learning why the heart races during a panic attack can help improve understanding of panic disorder and anxiety disorders. At the same time, it is important to remember that chest pain, a new racing heartbeat, or other unexplained symptoms should not automatically be assumed to be caused by anxiety, as similar symptoms can also occur in physical health conditions. Understanding the connection between anxiety and physical symptoms helps reduce stigma, improves awareness of panic attacks, and supports accurate recognition of common mental health conditions. Dr. Aditya Patil Consultant Psychiatrist Mana Sajjana Clinic, Pimple Saudagar, Pune