Heartburn vs. Heart Attack: Know the Critical Differences

Heartburn and heart attack are two medical conditions that can cause chest pain. However, the two conditions differ in their causes, symptoms, and treatment. Sudden heartburn can also be a sign of a silent heart attack. That makes it crucial to be able to tell them apart.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the difference between heartburn and a heart attack and help you understand when you should seek medical attention.

Heartburn

Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest caused when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. It can be the result of eating fatty or spicy foods, lying down after eating, or being overweight. Certain medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, can also cause heartburn.

The symptoms of heartburn typically include:

• A burning sensation in the chest that may move up to the throat
• A sour taste in the mouth
• Belching
• Nausea

Heartburn is usually not severe or life-threatening, but it can be uncomfortable and inconvenient. It can also indicate a more serious condition, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Heart Attack

A heart attack is a potentially fatal medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to the heart is blocked. It can damage or destroy cardiac muscles.

Heart attacks are most often caused by a buildup of plaque in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. This plaque can rupture, forming a blood clot that blocks the artery. Workplace stress can also cause cardiovascular diseases and lead to a heart attack in the future.

The symptoms of a heart attack can vary from one individual to another, but they typically include:

• Chest pain, or angina, that usually feels like a squeezing or pressure sensation
• Pain that may spread to the neck, jaw, arms, or back
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea or vomiting
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Sweating

A heart attack is a medical emergency. If you think you are having a heart attack, it is crucial to get in touch with a doctor immediately. Additionally, it is worth noting that a heart attack may not present any obvious symptoms, such as chest pain, breathlessness, or dizziness. Such silent heart attacks can be particularly life-threatening.

Heartburn vs. Heart Attack: How to Tell the Difference?

Heartburn and heart attacks can present similar symptoms, such as chest pain or discomfort. However, it is crucial to diagnose a heart attack at the earliest to improve an individual’s likelihood of survival. It can be difficult to tell the difference between heartburn and heart attack, especially if you have never had either condition before. 

However, there are some key aspects that can help you tell the two conditions apart. These include:

• The location of the pain: Heartburn pain is usually felt in the center of the chest, while heart attack pain can be felt in the center of the chest or the left side.
• The severity of the pain: Heartburn can cause mild to moderate chest pain, while pain due to a heart attack is usually severe.
• The duration of the pain: Pain due to heartburn usually goes away within a few minutes or hours, while heart attack pain does not go away and may get worse over time.
• Other symptoms: Heartburn does not cause other symptoms, such as shortness of breath or dizziness. A heart attack, on the other hand, can cause other symptoms, such as breathlessness, lightheadedness, and even fainting.

If you are experiencing chest pain, you must see a doctor immediately to get a proper diagnosis. Do not try to self-diagnose or delay seeking medical attention.

Final Thoughts

Heartburn and heart attack are distinct medical conditions with unique causes and treatments. However, they can have similar or overlapping symptoms. It is essential to know the differences between the two conditions so that you can seek the appropriate medical care if you experience chest pain.

If you are concerned about your heart health, talk to your doctor about tips to prevent a heart attack. Dr. C Raghu is an eminent heart specialist who is often regarded as the best cardiologist in Hyderabad. If you or anyone you know has been experiencing persistent chest pain, discomfort, dizziness, or other signs of a heart attack, reach out to Dr. Raghu right away.