It’s a common question, as both conditions can intensely impact the chest and share some similar symptoms. But the thing is that a heart attack is a serious condition and can be life-threatening, whereas heartburn can easily be tackled. 

But there are differences. Unlike what we see in movies, heart attacks don’t always happen only with chest pain. There are other symptoms, too. This guide will briefly discuss the difference in symptoms so you know when to visit a hospital or when to just consult on the phone. 

What Is Heartburn?

Unlike a heart attack, heartburn is not a disease. It’s just a symptom, a sensation caused by acid reflux. Acid reflux happens when contents of the stomach come back to the food pipe. Contrary to its name, heartburn doesn’t relate to the heart anyway. The name refers to where the symptom originates, which is in the chest. The problem happens in the stomach and oesophagus, not in the heart. 

Common Symptoms

• Burning sensation in chest 
• Pain in chest
• Bloating and discomfort
• Nausea
• Belching 

Sometimes, the acid can reach the top of the oesophagus. This can cause bad breath and a sore throat. 

What Is a Heart Attack?

Also known as myocardial infarction, a heart attack happens when the blood flow to the heart is affected, and the heart muscle doesn’t get enough oxygen. This causes the heart to stop eventually if the problem is not addressed in a timely manner. This leads to cardiac arrest, wherein the patient is not responsive and has no pulse. 

Common Symptoms

The symptoms of a heart attack can be mild or severe. Some people don’t even notice any symptoms. But those who experience symptoms usually report:

• Chest pain or discomfort that feels like squeezing, pressure, tightness, fullness, or aching.
• Chest pain that goes away after a few minutes and then comes back
• Pain in the arm, jaw, back, shoulder, or neck
• Shortness of breath
• Cold sweating 
• Weakness or dizziness

Sometimes, people also experience

• Nausea
• Vomiting 
• Tiredness

Heartburn Vs. Heart Attack

Though there are some differences in symptoms, it is still sometimes difficult to distinguish. However, you should know a few things for better differentiation.

• Heartburn does not cause sweating, dizziness or fatigue
• Heart attack doesn’t cause belching or bloating 
• Heartburn gets worse after lying down or eating

If you are having chest pain, it’s best to ask yourself a few questions:

• Does the pain subside with antacids or changing position? If so, it might not be a heart attack.
• Does the feeling of chest pain or discomfort spread across a broader area? It could be a heart attack.
• Does the pain persist for over 15 minutes and not go away with rest? Then, immediately rush to a hospital.
• Do you have other risk factors for a heart attack, like smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a history of a cardiac condition? If so, don’t wait; rush to a hospital.

Advise: It’s always a good idea to consult a cardiologist whenever you have chest pain/discomfort or abnormal symptoms to avoid any unwanted event. Also, consider annual health checkups for early diagnosis of any condition and to keep yourself in the pink of health.