How can I tell the difference between heartburn and a heart attack?
What a relief: Up to half of all people rushed to the hospital with chest pain (but no history of heart disease) find out that they actually have a bad case of heartburn. It is not always easy to distinguish between the two conditions and if you are in doubt seek immediate medical attention. Sufferers distinguish between the two conditions, but if you’re in doubt, get to the hospital pronto. Pain: Heartburn produces a burning sensation in the chest and a feeling of fluid coming up, while a heart attack feels more like intense chest pressure that can radiate to the neck, jaw or arms. Timing: Heartburn often strikes after a person has eaten a large meal or a trigger food, while heart attacks are more likely to happen after exercise, a stressful situation or sex. Other symptoms: Heartburn may be accompanied by indigestion and gas, while a heart attack is sometimes accompanied by shortness of breath and nausea.
Related Questions
- How does one know the difference between experiencing a heart attack versus something like heartburn? Is there anything I can do to differentiate between the two?
- Does a heart attack or stroke fit the category of life or limb threatening?
- How can I tell the difference between heartburn and a heart attack?
