It’s a common misconception that heartburn or acidity is a heart attack. While they can both cause chest pain, it is important to understand the differences in order to seek the right medical attention. Chest pain can be caused by various factors, which can be confusing for many people as one cannot be sure if it indicates muscle pain, a heart attack, or acidity. But ignoring it can be dangerous. Heart attack pain is not a typical sharp pain, but rather a sensation of diffuse discomfort throughout the body. The pain usually starts from the chest and spreads to the jaw, neck, arms, and sometimes the back.

Individuals experiencing sudden chest pain often panic, but it is crucial to understand how to differentiate heart attack pain from acidity. One of the key indicators is how the discomfort responds to antacids and water. If the pain starts to subside after taking an antacid or drinking water, it is more likely to be due to acidity and not a heart attack. If there is no relief after taking antacids, it may indicate a heart problem that requires immediate medical attention.

As per Dr Sanjeev Chaudhary, Clinical Director Cardiology, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, “Another important factor to consider is the relationship between physical exertion and pain. If the pain or discomfort increases with physical activity, it is more likely to be related to the heart. This kind of exertion-related pain is a common symptom of cardiac issues, including heart attacks.If the pain does not change with physical exertion, it is more likely to be non-cardiac in origin.”

Many people mistakenly attribute heart attack symptoms to acidity and continue to take antacids, believing the problem will cure itself. This difficulty in distinguishing between heart attack pain and acidity results in delayed treatment. This delay in getting proper medical treatment can have serious consequences. It is essential to seek medical attention if there is any uncertainty about the nature of the pain. Recognising these differences and responding promptly can be life-saving.