Understanding the fine line between heartburn or heart attack is vital so the right treatment can be given as soon as possible. Usually, people feel heart burn after consuming a lot of food that could really feel inconvenient most of the time. Heartburn is also an indication of GERD ( gastroesophageal reflux disease). Truth is,heartburn is just a sign of other digestive problems but the pain can be bad enough for a person to call for a medical emergency. When acid from the stomach backwash to the esophagus, heartburn is felt by people with GERD. People who are used to having heart burn commonly take antacids to overcome this feeling but it’s also more practical learn the difference between heartburn or heart attack. This takes a lot of discernment since the brain sends almost similar pain signals whether it’s a heartburn or a heart attack.
What are the signs that it is already a heart attack? The best way to distinguish between heartburn or heart attack is by looking out for the following symptoms according to the Mayo Clinic website:
Chest pain lasts longer in a heart attack.. Some medications like anti-acids can easily relieve heart burn. The person feels as if a heavy object is crushing the chest, has shortness of breath and breaks out in cold sweat. However, the pain is not just concentrated on the chest since it radiates to other parts of the body also feel pain like back, jaw, shoulders or arms. Heart attack is already occurring once the chest pain is accompanied by pain in the left arm. It is also easier to distinguish between heartburn or heart attack especially when pain happens after physical exertion.
The painful chest pain also comes along with dizziness and nausea. In both cases, heartburn or heart attack produce pain but when it accompanied by dizziness, nausea or confusion it’s time to call for a medical emergency. Prompt medical attention must be given in a matter of minutes since vital organs like the brain and heart may be cut off oxygen supply that results to stroke or even death.
One thing you should keep in mind is that a heartburn is only a symptom which can be relieved while a heart attack is a serious medical situation that needs prompt attention. Thus, being able to recognize a heart burn or heart attack is important.
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