Indigestion or a heart attack?
Heartburn feels like this:
Heartburn—also referred to as indigestion—feels like a strong burning sensation in your chest; the intensity could be mild, moderate, or severe. The pain that accompanies heartburn occurs just behind your breastbone, but it can sometimes feel like it’s radiating upward toward your throat and/or neck.
You may notice that you have heartburn shortly after eating and that it feels worse at night or while lying down or bending over. Certain types of foods, especially spicy foods, are known to cause indigestion.
Heart attack signs can feel like this:
- Pain or tightness in your chest
- Pressure, aching, or squeezing sensation in the center or left side of the chest
- Pain that radiates down your left arm, jaw, neck, back, teeth, and/or upper belly
- Difficulty breathing, feeling suddenly lightheaded or dizzy
- Breaking into a cold sweat
- Nausea and vomiting
The pain associated with a heart attack can persist and intensify, so it’s crucial to seek immediate medical treatment. While some heart attacks strike suddenly, many people have warning signs and symptoms hours, days or weeks in advance. Chest pain or pressure that doesn't go away with rest may be an early warning sign.
If you’re unsure, go to the nearest Emergency Department
If you’re having chest pains that are concerning you, and if you’re unsure if you’re experiencing heartburn or suffering a heart attack, it’s always best to go to the nearest emergency department right away. Heart attacks can be life-threatening, and you’ll need emergency medical care if you are having one.
