Heartburn or Heart Attack? The Subtle Differences You Should Know

Chest pain is one of the most alarming symptoms a person can experience. But not every sharp or burning sensation in the chest signals a heart attack. As reported by pafikutaikab.org in many cases, the discomfort may actually come from the digestive system particularly from acid reflux or heartburn. The problem is that the two conditions often feel similar, making it difficult for people to tell them apart. Doctors emphasize that understanding the differences can save lives.

According to Dr. Liana Prasetyo, a cardiologist at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital in Jakarta, many patients come to the emergency room believing they are having a heart attack, when it turns out to be heartburn. “The burning pain from acid reflux can mimic heart-related pain, especially if it spreads to the chest or throat,” she said. “However, true cardiac pain often comes with other warning signs.”

Heartburn occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. This backflow causes a burning sensation behind the breastbone, often rising toward the neck or jaw. The discomfort usually appears after eating large meals, lying down too soon after eating, or consuming spicy or fatty foods. Over-the-counter antacids typically relieve the pain within minutes.

In contrast, a heart attack happens when blood flow to part of the heart muscle is blocked, usually due to a buildup of fat or plaque in the coronary arteries. The resulting pain or pressure may feel like a heavy weight on the chest rather than a burning sensation. It can radiate to the left arm, shoulder, jaw, or back, and is often accompanied by symptoms such as shortness of breath, cold sweats, dizziness, or nausea.

“The key difference lies in the nature and timing of the pain,” Dr. Liana explained. “Heartburn pain usually gets worse when lying down or bending over, while heart attack pain is not affected by position and tends to be more intense or crushing.” She added that if the discomfort lasts more than a few minutes, does not improve with rest, or is accompanied by breathlessness, it’s safest to seek emergency care immediately.

Another point of confusion is that some people, especially women and older adults, may experience “silent” heart attacks without the classic chest pain. Instead, they might feel unexplained fatigue, jaw discomfort, or mild indigestion. “That’s why it’s important not to dismiss recurring chest pain as just gastric trouble,” Dr. Liana warned.

Doctors recommend paying attention to risk factors. People with high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, or a history of smoking are more likely to have heart problems. Those prone to acid reflux should avoid eating right before bedtime, reduce caffeine and alcohol intake, and maintain a healthy weight.

When in doubt, experts agree that it’s better to be cautious. “If you suspect a heart attack, don’t try to diagnose yourself,” said Dr. Liana. “Call emergency services and get checked. A few minutes can make the difference between recovery and tragedy.”

Whether the pain comes from the stomach or the heart, listening to your body’s warning signs is essential. Understanding these subtle differences—and acting quickly when symptoms appear can protect your health and save your life.

Source: https://pafikutaikab.org/