Is it a Heart Attack or Acid Reflux?
October 6, 2009 by admin
Filed under Acid Reflux Causes
A heart attack is something to be taken very seriously. I think we have all been instilled with the signs of a heart attack, primarily chest pains. For this reason, I have gone to the emergency room twice in the past three years, the most resent was last June. The first time I was experiencing severe pain in the center of my chest and the second time I had pain going from my chest into my left shoulder and arm. Both time I was monitored by the ER doctors and then given a treadmill stress test. I past both of these test with flying colors; my heart was in great shape.
So what was causing me so much pain that I thought I was having a heart attach – Acid Reflux. Acid Reflux or heartburn can be so severe at time that individuals like myself think they are experiencing a heart attack. Often times it’s difficult to discern the two without medical testing. To make things more complicated the two medical problems have similar symptoms.
Here are some acid reflux symptoms that are often mistaken for a possible heart attack:
- A sharp, burning pain usually just below the breastbone, but can be higher as it was in my case. The location of the pain is based on how high the reflux reaches.
- Pain associated with acid reflux does not generally radiate to the shoulders, neck, or arms, but with many people it does, it’s usually a bit milder.
- If the pain comes after meals, when lying on the back, when exercising or when experiencing anxiety it’s usually associated with Acid Reflux.
- Acid reflux usually responds quickly to antacids.
- The most tell-tell symptoms is acid reflux rarely is accompanied by a cold sweat.
Here are the signs of a heart attack as defined by the American Heart Association:
- Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.
- Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
- Shortness of breath. May occur with or without chest discomfort.
- Other signs: These may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.
Cardiac problems can mimic heartburn or other indigestion problems, it very important that you do not confuse the two. If you think you’re having a heart attack, call 9-1-1 or your emergency medical system immediately. Get to a hospital right away.
Acid Reflux Symptoms
Heartburn is a common symptom of acid reflux and GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease), however not everyone that experiences heartburn has GERD.
Here are some common acid reflux symptoms:
- Heartburn
- Involves discomfort or burning pain in the chest that may move upward into your throat.
- Increase by bending over, stooping or eating.
- Heartburn can be more frequent or worst at night.
- Often relieved by antacids.
- Regurgitation
- A bitter or sour tasting acid in the back of your throat.
- Belching or Burping, often with a sour or bitter taste.
- Dysphagia – the narrowing of the esophagus which feels like food is stuck in the esophagus.
- Feeling bloated.
- Chronic sore throat.
- Dry cough or wheezing.
- Hoarseness or a change in your voice.
If you are experiencing a number of the above symptoms report them to your doctor for further diagnosis. Your doctor may refer you to Gastrologist who specializes in the treatment of the gastric system such as stomach functions and disorders.
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