Chest pain can be alarming, and one of the most confusing questions people face is:
“Am I having heartburn or a heart attack?”

Both conditions can cause discomfort in the chest, but they have different causes, symptoms, and levels of urgency. While heartburn is usually harmless, a heart attack can be life-threatening if not treated immediately. Recognising the difference can help you act fast and possibly save a life.

What Is Heartburn?

Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest caused by acid reflux, where stomach acid moves up into the esophagus. It often occurs after eating certain foods or lying down too soon after a meal.

Common Causes:

• Eating spicy, oily, or heavy meals
• Lying down immediately after eating
• Smoking or drinking alcohol
• Being overweight
• Certain medications (NSAIDs, aspirin, etc.)

Typical Symptoms:

• Burning sensation in the chest or throat
• Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
• Pain that worsens after eating or lying down
• Relief with antacids

Heartburn is uncomfortable but usually not dangerous — though frequent episodes may indicate GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease).

What Is a Heart Attack?

A heart attack (myocardial infarction) occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is blocked, usually by a clot or plaque buildup in the arteries. This cuts off oxygen to part of the heart, causing tissue damage.

Typical Symptoms:

• Chest pressure, tightness, or squeezing pain
• Pain radiating to the jaw, neck, shoulder, arm, or back
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating, nausea, or dizziness
• Pain lasting more than a few minutes, not relieved by rest or antacids

A heart attack is a medical emergency. If you suspect it, seek immediate medical attention or call emergency services.

Heartburn vs. Heart Attack: Key Differences

When to Seek Medical Help

Even doctors sometimes find it difficult to differentiate between heartburn and heart attack symptoms. Therefore, it’s safest to get evaluated immediately if you experience:

• Persistent chest pain or discomfort
• Pain spreading to your arm, jaw, or back
• Sudden shortness of breath or sweating
• Nausea, vomiting, or dizziness

Never ignore chest pain

Prevention Tips

To Reduce Heartburn:

• Avoid heavy or spicy meals.
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
• Don’t lie down immediately after eating.
• Limit alcohol, caffeine, and smoking.
  

To Prevent Heart Attack:

• Maintain a healthy diet and weight.
• Exercise regularly.
• Control cholesterol, blood pressure, and diabetes.
• Avoid smoking and manage stress effectively.

 It’s better to rule out a heart attack than to risk a delay in treatment.

Conclusion

While heartburn and heart attack share similar symptoms, one is a digestive issue and the other a cardiac emergency. If you’re ever unsure about your chest pain, don’t take chances, get checked immediately.

If you experience frequent heartburn or unexplained chest pain, consult a gastroenterologist or cardiologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Timely care can make all the difference in protecting your heart health and overall well-being.

“Also Read: Appendix Burst: What Happens If Appendicitis Is Ignored?“
➝https://www.samatahospital.com/appendix-burst-what-happens-if-appendicitis-is-ignored/