Is It Heartburn or a Heart Attack? How To Tell The Difference

Have you ever experienced a burning sensation in your chest after eating a meal? Although this is a common symptom of heartburn, it could be a sign of a much more serious heart condition. The truth is, heartburn and heart attacks can create very similar symptoms. They can both cause discomfort in the middle or left side of your chest that might radiate down your left arm or to your left shoulder.

SIGNS THAT MIGHT MEAN A HEART ATTACK

If you experience any of the following symptoms, in addition to chest pain that lasts more than 15 minutes, you should head to the emergency room immediately.
• Shortness of breath
• Palpitations
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Clamminess or sweating
• Lightheadedness or fainting

Trust Central Florida’s #1 ER. Visit YourLocalER.com to locate your ER closest to home. If your symptoms suddenly get better without assistance, you should still head to your doctor or cardiologist as soon as possible to get checked out.

SIGNS THAT MIGHT MEAN HEARTBURN

If your pain usually pops up when you’re resting, after you eat greasy or spicy food or when you lay down right after a meal, that might signal heartburn. The sensation is usually accompanied by gastrointestinal issues like burps, bloating, or an acidic taste in your mouth.

WHEN IN DOUBT, GET CHECKED OUT.

There’s no substitute for a medical diagnosis. If you’re unsure about your chest pain, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and get checked out by a medical professional.