yes they can. in fact people experiencing their first anxiety attack often believe they're having a heart attack. symptoms of the two conditions are very similar. if you've never had an anxiety or panic attack before and therefore have not experienced the symptoms you should always err on the side of caution and seek emergency medical attention. granted a heart attack in a younger person would be quite rare but as the old adage goes: better safe than sorry. once you've had a panic attack you can recognize the symptoms of it when it occurs. however no one should attempt to self-diagnose a heart attack versus a panic attack. if you're not sure always call for emergency responders. keep in mind the symptoms of a heart attack can go away on their own. if you've experienced symptoms you believed were a heart attack but then cleared up do not assume you had a panic attack instead. you need to get checked out by a health care professional. wishing you well!
can anxiety attack be confused with heart attack?