From a long time sufferer I feel there really no difference in either. Axiety is like the worst worry about something you can ever experience. When on the other hand."Panic Attacks" which are still associated with anxiety are the worst you could ever have. You go into a mode where you can not even funtion, think correctly or even speek correctly. Crying may occure. This is more of a frantic mode then an axiety attack is. During an anxiety attack you may find you are still able to think straight and still be in a mode of distinction.
I know, I just had a panic attack this morning as a matter of fact.

Carrie

Anxiety is more of a long time level of worry and nervousness. A panic attack is a sudden severe onset of panic that comes with intense physical symptoms where you might feel as if you are having a heart attack.

You can have both, or you could have just one or the other.

Carrie's description was good as well.

Anxiety attacks come on pretty strong, whereas anxiety is just there...I finally got mine under control with Zoloft, and now experience anxiety symptoms every now and then. When I would get the panic attacks,. it was like something would come over me, chills, pain, dizziness, not being able to breathe, the need to use the bathroom etc...

Anxiety attacks refers to one specific period of time where you have intense feelings of anxiety (heart palpitations, intense fear, a feeling you want to flee immediately from your situation etc) they typically last 20 miutes or so. There there is panic disorder which I have that is a fear you will have another attack. So your not scared of anything specifically, just afraid the attack will come on.

Anxiety in general is worrying about everything all the time to a degree that is not healthy. ie. worrying so much you'll get into a car accident you quit driving. It can be mild or severe