Heart Attack Or Indigestion

When you or someone you love has a sudden, sharp chest pain, you may wonder: is this a heart attack – or simply indigestion?

Heart attack and indigestion can share some similar symptoms. While heart attacks and indigestion can both cause chest discomfort, they differ in terms of location, nature, associated symptoms, duration, risk factors, response to medications, and the need for prompt medical evaluation.

Indigestion and heartburn can often be treated successfully at home with over-the-counter antacids, while a heart attack requires emergency medical care.

It's essential to be aware of the differences between heart attack and indigestion symptoms and seek medical attention if you suspect a heart-related issue to ensure timely and appropriate care.

What Is Indigestion?

Indigestion occurs when stomach acids back up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest. The pain in the chest caused by indigestion is sometimes called “heartburn” because the pain can occur behind the breastbone, or sternum, on the left side of the chest near the heart.

What Are Symptoms Of Indigestion?

Chest pain with indigestion is typically sharp, rather than dull pain. The pain often occurs immediately after eating and may also be accompanied by regurgitation of bits of food in the back of the throat.

While it can cause chest discomfort, pain from indigestion is usually less intense and more localized than heart attack pain.

“Chest pain that's caused by indigestion usually feels more like a burning sensation in the chest,” said Asad Torabi, MD, a Franciscan Physician Network cardiologist with offices in Crown Point and Dyer.

In addition to chest pain, severe indigestion can also be marked by the following symptoms:

• Gassiness, or a need to belch
• Feeling uncomfortably full or bloated
• Nausea or vomiting

What Is A Heart Attack?

A heart attack happens when blood flow to the heart becomes blocked. These blockages can occur when blood clots or a narrowing in the arteries – a condition known as arteriosclerosis marked by a build-up of plaque caused by fat and cholesterol – restrict normal blood flow.

The medical term for a reduced blood flow is ischemia. When part of the heart muscle suffers damage as a result of ischemia, it’s called a myocardial infarction, more commonly known as a heart attack.

What Are Symptoms Of Heart Attack?

For both men and women, the most common symptom of a heart attack is chest discomfort. Chest pain associated with a heart attack is typically dull, rather than sharp. Patients who have suffered a heart attack often report feeling pressure in their chest, as if someone is sitting on them.

“The pain or discomfort associated with a heart attack is typically persistent and doesn't subside with rest,” Dr. Torabi said. “This pain may last for more than a few minutes and can even come and go.”

In addition to chest pain, heart attack symptoms can include:

• Pressure or tightness in your chest or arms that may spread to your neck, jaw or back
• Nausea or abdominal pain
• Shortness of breath
• Cold sweats
• Fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting
• Lightheadedness or sudden dizziness

Anyone experiencing these heart attack symptoms should call 911 and take steps to get medical care immediately.