You just finished a heavy meal, perhaps a classic Kolkata biryani or spicy curry. Suddenly, you feel a sharp discomfort in your chest. Your mind starts racing: “Is it just acidity? Or is it my heart?” Gas vs Heart Attack Symptoms
In India, this confusion is one of the leading causes of delayed heart treatment. Many patients dismiss life-threatening cardiac events as “just gas” until it is too late.
Dr. Avishek Saha, one of the best cardiologists in Kolkata, warns that self-diagnosis can be dangerous. While the symptoms can overlap, there are 5 critical differences that could save your life.
1. The Type of Pain (Burn vs. Squeeze) Gas vs Heart Attack Symptoms
The sensation itself is the biggest clue.
- Gas/Acidity: Usually feels like a “burning” sensation (heartburn) behind the breastbone or a sharp, stabbing pain that moves around.
- Heart Attack: Often feels like pressure, heaviness, or squeezing. Patients describe it as “an elephant sitting on my chest.” If the pain feels like a tight band, do not ignore it.
2. Does the Pain Move? (Radiation) Gas vs Heart Attack Symptoms
- Gas: The pain usually stays in the chest or belly.
- Heart Attack: Cardiac pain often radiates. It travels from the chest to the left arm, jaw, neck, or back.
- Expert Insight: “Jaw pain combined with chest discomfort is a classic ‘red flag’ for women,” says Dr. Saha.
3. The “Movement” Test Gas vs Heart Attack Symptoms
This is a quick way to check yourself at home.
- Gas: If you burp, change position, or walk around, gas pain often changes or gets better.
- Heart Attack: Heart pain persists regardless of your position. Worse, if the pain increases when you walk or climb stairs and stops when you rest, it is a sign of Angina (blocked arteries).
- (Read more about diagnosing blockages via Coronary Angiography).
4. Associated Symptoms (Sweat & Breath) Gas vs Heart Attack Symptoms
Gas pain rarely comes with systemic symptoms. A heart attack, however, triggers a body-wide alarm.
- Look for Cold Sweats: Breaking out in a sweat in an air-conditioned room is not normal.
- Look for Shortness of Breath: If you are gasping for air without doing heavy exercise, seek emergency help.
5. Duration Matters
- Gas: Can last for hours or come in sharp, quick waves.
- Heart Attack: Usually lasts more than 15-20 minutes and does not go away with antacids or water.
Dr. Saha’s Advice: “Better Safe Than Sorry” Gas vs Heart Attack Symptoms
If you are over 40, have diabetes, or high blood pressure, never assume it is “just gas.”
The “Golden Hour” is vital. Accessing timely care at a top facility can prevent permanent heart muscle damage. Dr. Avishek Saha utilizes advanced Angioplasty techniques to restore blood flow immediately in emergency cases.
Conclusion
Don’t gamble with your health. If you are unsure, get checked. A simple ECG or consultation can provide peace of mind and safety.
Experiencing Chest Discomfort? Connect with Kolkata’s trusted heart specialist today.
📍 Clinic: 26, Manohar Pukur Road, Kolkata – 700029 📞 Emergency/Booking: +91 9874381872 🌐 Book Your Consultation Now
