How does chest pain from a heart attack differ from that caused by gastric issues?

Chest pain is scary. The moment you feel a sudden discomfort in your chest, the first thought that pops into your head is, "Am I having a heart attack?"

But wait—what if it’s just gas?

Many people confuse heart attack symptoms with gastric pain, leading to either unnecessary panic or dangerous delays in getting medical help. So, let’s break it down in simple terms: how do you differentiate between the two?

What does a heart attack chest pain feel like?

A heart attack (medically known as a myocardial infarction) happens when blood flow to the heart is blocked, depriving the heart muscle of oxygen. This damage leads to severe symptoms, including a very distinct type of chest pain.

Heart attack pain is typically a pressure, squeezing, or feeling of heaviness in the chest. It is usually likened to the sensation of "an elephant sitting on the chest." It tends to begin in the middle or left side of the chest and can spread to the jaw, arms (the left arm most often), neck, shoulders, or back. The discomfort persists for longer than a few minutes, occasionally appearing and disappearing but never really going away. It may develop suddenly, usually after activity or even when not moving, and is not relieved by burping or position changes.

The pain is associated with shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, dizziness, extreme fatigue, or a sense of impending doom often accompanying a heart attack.

What is gastric chest pain?

Gastric pain, however, is usually caused by acidity, bloating, or retained gas in the gastrointestinal tract. Gastric pain tends to be a sharp, burning, or stabbing pain and not pressure or squeezing. It may be accompanied by bloating. It tends to be localized in the upper abdomen but radiates to the chest, simulating heart pain.

Eating spicy or fatty food, lying down immediately after eating, or experiencing acid reflux can cause gastric chest pain. It usually relieves itself after burping, taking water, or an antacid. It is uncomfortable but not usually life-threatening.

When to seek medical help

If you are experiencing chest pain and are unsure about its cause, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Seek medical help immediately if the pain is severe and persistent. It spreads to other areas like the jaw, arms, or shoulders. You experience shortness of breath, cold sweats, nausea, or dizziness.

The pain does not improve with burping, drinking water, or taking an antacid.

Don’t self-diagnose when it comes to chest pain. A delay in getting medical attention could be life-threatening in the case of a heart attack.

Stay aware, stay safe, and when in doubt, always consult a doctor!