Introduction Heart Attack vs Gas Pain
You just finished a heavy meal. Suddenly, you feel a sharp pain in the center of your chest. Your mind races: “Is it just acidity? Or is it a Heart Attack?” You drink some water, maybe take an antacid, and wait. Heart Attack vs Gas Pain
This wait can be fatal. Heart Attack vs Gas Pain
Dr. Avishek Saha, a leading cardiologist in Kolkata, explains the subtle differences between Gas Pain (GERD) and a Heart Attack—and the 5 vital signs that tell you to rush to the hospital immediately.
1. Does the Pain “Move”? (Radiation) Heart Attack vs Gas Pain
Gas pain usually stays in one spot—the stomach or the lower chest.
- The Heart Attack Sign: Cardiac pain travels. It starts in the chest and radiates (moves) to your:
- Left arm or shoulder.
- Neck or Jaw.
- Back (between the shoulder blades).
- Rule of Thumb: If the pain moves upwards or outwards, do not assume it is gas. Call for help.
2. The “Sweat” Factor Heart Attack vs Gas Pain
Acidity might make you feel uneasy, but it rarely makes you sweat profusely.
- The Vital Sign: If you have chest heaviness and you break out in a “Cold Sweat” (forehead or palms are wet/clammy) without any physical exercise, this is a classic sign of a heart attack.
- Action: Ignore the burping. Look at the sweat.
3. Does “Burping” Relieve It? Heart Attack vs Gas Pain
- Gas: Usually, if you burp or pass gas, the pressure in your stomach releases, and you feel immediate relief.
- Heart Attack: You might feel bloated, and you might even burp, but the heaviness/squeezing sensation does not go away. It remains constant or gets worse.
4. Breathlessness (The Silent Alarm) Heart Attack vs Gas Pain
Gas causes discomfort, but it doesn’t stop you from breathing.
- The Vital Sign: If you feel like you just ran a marathon while sitting on the sofa—gasping for air or feeling “air hunger”—this is heart failure, not digestion.
5. Exertion Makes It Worse
This is the ultimate test.
- The Test: Try to walk a few steps or climb one flight of stairs.
- Gas: Walking often helps gas move and makes you feel better.
- Heart Attack: Physical activity demands more blood. If your artery is blocked, walking will make the pain sharp and unbearable.
What Should You Do?
If you have Chest Pain + Sweating + Jaw Pain, do not take a digestive pill.
- Chew a Disprin (300mg) immediately.
- Rush to the nearest ER for an ECG.
- Don’t Drive Yourself.
Dr. Avishek Saha’s Advice: “It is better to go to the ER and be told it is ‘Just Gas’ than to stay home and miss a Heart Attack. Never feel embarrassed to check.”
Save This Number for Emergency 📍 Visit: 26, Manohar Pukur Road, Kolkata – 700029 📞 Emergency Call: +91 9874381872 📅 Book a Preventive Heart Checkup
