Chest pain is often a scary experience. Sometimes this happens due to gas, acidity or muscle strain, but in many cases this pain can also be a sign of heart attack. Therefore, it is very important to recognize the difference at the right time.
What does the pain of gas or acidity feel like?
Pain caused by gas or acidity is usually felt starting from the stomach and reaching up to the chest.
Its symptoms may be:
- heartburn or heaviness
- relief from burping
- pain increases after eating
- flatulence or indigestion
- gradual reduction of pain
Gas pain usually goes away on its own after some time or is relieved by taking medicine.
What is the pain of heart attack?
The pain of heart attack is more severe and persistent.
Its symptoms may be:
- pressure, tightness, or heaviness in the middle of the chest
- Pain spreading to the left arm, shoulder, jaw, or back
- difficulty breathing
- cold sweat
- nervousness or restlessness
- feeling dizzy or nauseous
This pain usually lasts for more than 10-15 minutes and does not go away even with rest.
How to recognize the difference between gas and heart attack?
| gas pain | heart attack pain |
|---|---|
| relief from burping or gas | Doesn’t get better even after resting |
| increases after eating | can happen without any reason |
| burning pain | pain like pressure or stiffness |
| heaviness in stomach | pain in the middle of the chest |
When to consult a doctor immediately?
If chest pain is accompanied by these symptoms, do not delay:
- breathlessness
- heavy sweating
- pain in left arm or jaw
- too much anxiety
- feeling weak or faint
In such a situation, it is important to seek medical help immediately.
What to do for protection?
- Reduce fried and spicy foods
- do light exercise every day
- keep stress low
- Stay away from smoking and alcohol
- Keep blood pressure and sugar under control
Not every chest pain is a heart attack, but ignoring every chest pain can also be dangerous. If the pain is recurring or seems severe, the safest way is to consult a doctor instead of guessing on your own.
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