The Difference Between Heartburn and a Heart Attack

While just about everybody has experienced heartburn at some time in their lives, they may not realize exactly what the symptoms of heartburn are. It can be very deceptive as there are a variety of causes that lead to heartburn symptoms. There is also a wide assortment of heartburn symptoms, and not everybody will experience an attack in the same manner.

A lot of the heartburn symptoms that individuals experience may cause them to think that they are having a heart attack or some kind of heart problem. They might not believe it to be heartburn at all. It is difficult for some people to tell apart the symptoms of a heart attack and heartburn. Even medical professionals from time to time will have a difficult time differentiating between the two when the patient is explaining their symptoms.

Frequently when heartburn symptoms are similar to those of a heart attack it is wise to get the advice of a health care professional in figuring out what you are actually going through. While they can be quite alike, the symptoms of heartburn are dissimilar to those of a heart attack in many ways. If you are able to know the difference between the two, it will be of invaluable assistance to your physician in diagnosing and treating your problem.

Many people believe that heartburn is a condition of the heart. In reality, it is a problem with the throat and chest area, which is why so many people believe it to be a heart attack. Heartburn symptoms are very much like those of a heart attack, particularly if you have never experienced either of these conditions before and don't know what each one is like. Heartburn typically produces a sharp, burning sensation in the region of the chest. On the other hand, a heart attack presents itself as tightness or pressure in the middle of your chest. Heartburn symptoms sometimes spread to the neck and shoulders, which is one of the reasons why some people mistake this condition for a heart attack.

Many people believe that if they are experiencing pain in their chest and it spreads to the arms, they are having a heart attack. In reality, heartburn symptoms can also spread to the arms just like a heart attack. However, with a heart attack you will also break out in a cold sweat, which doesn't happen with heartburn.

Heartburn symptoms will frequently be particularly noticeable following a meal or if you lie down after eating. A heart attack can happen anytime. Heartburn may show up after working out or during times of stress. Although heart attacks can also be triggered by these situations, if you are aware of the symptoms of heartburn, it will help you to figure out just what you are going through and get the appropriate treatment for heartburn relief.