Distinguishing between chest pain caused by cardiovascular disease and heartburn

Heartburn and a heart attack both cause chest pain, but there are a few differences that help tell the difference.

Reason

A heart attack, also known as myocardial infarction, occurs when one or more major arteries in the heart do not receive enough blood and oxygen. This is also called ischemia. In addition, when the arteries suddenly narrow, it can also cause angina.

Heartburn occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus. It is a classic symptom of acid reflux disease. When acid flows back up into the esophagus, it can cause a burning sensation, pain near the chest, and discomfort.

Time of pain

Heartburn tends to occur shortly after eating. Heartburn is not related to the heart but is often mistaken for a heart attack mainly because of the location of the pain near the chest.

A heart attack can happen at any time, appearing suddenly.

Symptom

The main difference between the symptoms is:

People with heartburn will feel a sour taste or burning sensation in the throat or mouth; there is no shortness of breath. Other symptoms of acid reflux may accompany heartburn, such as nausea, bloating, and belching.

Heartburn tends to be worse after eating and lying down. Medications that reduce stomach acid levels can help relieve symptoms.

Heartburn due to acid reflux or heart attack both have chest pain symptoms. Photo: Freepik — Heartburn caused by acid reflux or a heart attack can both cause chest pain. Photo: *Freepik*

Heart attacks do not cause bloating or belching, but they may be accompanied by shortness of breath. The pain usually comes on suddenly. The person will feel pain or discomfort in the neck, jaw, back, or one or both shoulders; fainting may occur.

Location of pain

Heartburn and heart attack both manifest in the chest area.

However, if you pay close attention, heartburn usually includes a burning sensation that starts in the upper part of the stomach and radiates to the chest. While a heart attack usually creates an uncomfortable feeling in the middle or left side of the chest that is sometimes described as pressure so much that the sufferer feels like they are being squeezed or strained.

If a person experiences chest discomfort and is not sure whether it is heartburn or a heart attack, they should be cautious and seek medical attention as soon as possible. If they suspect they are having a heart attack, they should seek help immediately or call an ambulance if possible. The longer the heart is cut off from blood supply, the more serious the damage to the heart muscle is likely to be.

Bao Bao (According to Healthline, Medical News Today )

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