Heartburn or Heart Attack?

Heartburn and acid reflux are experienced more often during the holidays, and because of that, people sometimes miss the signs of a heart attack and assume they are just experiencing a bad case of heartburn. While heartburn and a heart attack share some symptoms, and heartburn can actually be a symptom of a heart attack, it is important to know when you should call 911 or go to the ER.

When in Doubt, Go

The thought of having a heart attack is frightening, and sometimes it’s easier to dismiss minor symptoms until it is too late, but if you are in doubt about whether you have heartburn or you are having a heart attack, don’t waste time. Just call 911 or go to the emergency room. This is especially true if the heartburn you are experiencing is accompanied by heavy pressure in the chest; pain in your jaw, neck, or shoulder; or nausea. You might be wrong, but a few simple tests at the hospital will give you peace of mind.

Why Do People Confuse Heartburn and Heart Attacks?

Both heartburn and heart attacks can cause you to experience pain in your chest. Chest pain can be frightening, and heartburn can be painful and unpleasant. If you’ve never experienced heartburn in the past or don’t have any gastrointestinal issues that you regularly struggle with, heartburn can be even more frightening.

If It Is Heartburn, How Do I Treat It?

Heartburn symptoms can be treated with antacids, It also helps to remain upright – do not lie down after eating and do not bend over. If you regularly suffer from heartburn or acid reflux, you may want to keep a food diary so that you can determine what is triggering it.

Our center is home to experienced gastroenterology specialists who are dedicated to providing personalized endoscopic healthcare to meet the needs of our patients and their families. Using the latest endoscopic procedures performed at our state-of-the-art facility, our GI doctors can diagnose and treat a wide range of gastrointestinal problems, including acid reflux, heartburn, nausea, bloating, cramping, constipation and diarrhea. If you have acid reflux or heartburn and need help, please contact Gramercy Park Digestive Disease Center to make an appointment.