Q: mac os x 10.6.8 won't start up after kernel panic

Hi, I got a kernel panic. When i restart the laptop the system gets stuck in the loading screen (apple logo and loading gif) with the fans spinning as if threre was no tomorrow. I tried booting in safe mode (power the comouter holding shift) but no changes I've been waiting for 1 hour in the loading window already...this is not normal..